Naps: Do they help or hinder nighttime sleep?
Naps are a divisive topic: some love them, others avoid them. But does napping during the day interfere with a good night's rest?
It all depends on the length and time of day. Short naps, twenty to thirty minutes, can be very beneficial, giving you energy, improving your mood, and improving your concentration. Longer naps or naps taken late in the afternoon can make it difficult to fall asleep at night.
For those with very demanding schedules or short nights, naps can be a great ally, as long as they are taken in moderation.
Interestingly, studies show that countries where napping is part of the culture, such as Spain and Greece, tend to associate it with a more balanced lifestyle. In short, a short break can be refreshing, but nighttime sleep is still irreplaceable.