Are you a fan of taking a nap after lunch?
Have you ever wondered if it’s good for you?
Benefits for the body
Several studies show that people who “recharge their batteries” by taking a nap after lunch can stay more alert and focused. Napping also helps to lower the level of cortisol (the hormone responsible for regulating our stress threshold) in the blood. This translates into a benefit for our circulatory system, decreasing the risk of contracting cardiovascular disease.
Our immune system is also positively affected when we take an afternoon nap. Our immune defenses are weakened when we don’t take a nap, much the same way as when we don’t get enough sleep overnight. That’s why, especially after a bad night, it’s a good idea to carve out some time for an afternoon nap.
Why do I feel drowsy after I eat?
Depending on the consistency of your lunch, you may feel more or less drowsy after you’re done eating. More specifically, what makes the difference is the number of calories you consume. You’re bound to be more tired if you consume lots of sugar, especially if they are concentrated at the end of your meal.
After lunch, we recommend lying down for some time, generally between 15 and 60 minutes, to avoid transforming your period of rest into an actual nap. If you fall asleep, the risk is you’ll have trouble sleeping at night and will wake up disoriented. Setting an alarm clock is always a good idea.
The heavier your meal, the stronger the slump. Rather than prolonging your time of rest, we suggest taking a short walk before you lie down, to stimulate your digestive system.
In conclusion, a nap after lunch is recommended for several reasons, provided you don’t overdo it! Remember: it’s better to sleep well in the afternoon than to sleep too much. Make sure you spend a moment with the lights off and no noise, and your body and mind will thank you for it!