The link between tiredness and low mood is long established, hence the phrase....'getting out of bed the wrong side!'.
Focus...
"Scientific research demonstrates that tiredness inhibits the prefrontal cortex, the modern rational part of the brain responsible for managing mood, causing us to be pushed more into our amygdala, an older part of the brain responsible to threat detecting and managing fear. It makes sense then to assume that taking a short power nap helps to improve mood by reducing the tiredness built up during the day. That’s why the work we undertake with Bensons for Beds aims to help the nation sleep better, providing essential sleep education, as well as expert bedroom advice and comfort solutions to create the perfect sleeping environment.”
Below are my tops tips on why it’s important to get the best night’s sleep.
Reaction Time: A study in 2002 found that 20 minutes naps (compared to subjects with no naps) significantly improved their vigilance.
Energy: Another study found that quick naps during the day help to decrease fatigue.
Stress: Napping regularly can help your body handle those tough situations by reducing your stress levels.
Heart: A consistent scheduled nap even has been shown to decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Memory: Research has shown that daytime napping is directly associated with better performance in retention.
Problem Solving: Napping can also be a good tool to heighten your mental processes and problem solving skills. Research suggests that your twice as likely to solve a problem after a short nap, than if you stayed awake.
Focus: The National Sleep Foundation recommends a short nap to help you focus better in your workplace later in the afternoon.
Happiness: Napping can affect your mood as well, as a study in Edinburgh found that more short nappers reported feeling happy in the day compared to long nappers or people who do not nap at all.
By Dr Guy Meadows from Bensons for Beds