National Napping Day

National Napping Day History

National Napping Day highlights the importance of a good short rest for overall health and wellbeing. Endorsed by medical professionals and sleep experts, this event arms to raise awareness about the physical and mental benefits of napping. A regular, short nap, especially in the mid-afternoon, is proven to be beneficial for our health in numerous ways; it helps to improve mood, increase alertness, and enhance cognitive function and memory.

National Napping Day has its roots in the American culture and was first introduced in 1999 by William Anthony, Ph.D., a Boston University professor, and his wife Camille Anthony. They formed this observance to also help people adjust to daylight saving changes. Specifically, research shows that short naps can be a sensible response to the body's setting to daylight saving time in America. The day encourages Americans to take a break from their hectic daily schedule and embrace a brief restorative nap to replenish the energy and reduce weariness.

In the United States, National Napping Day is observed with a variety of individual and organizational activities. Some individuals celebrate it by taking short power naps in the mid-afternoon, while many companies create opportunities for employees to rest and recharge. Educational institutions also hold seminars and wellness programs to highlight the importance of a balanced sleep pattern for better academic performance. Notably, this observance day falls on the Monday following the daylight saving time switch. This scheduling is thought to help combat the slight disorientation or fatigue people might feel due to the "spring forward" sleep schedule adjustment.

Facts about National Napping Day

• According to sleepfoundation.org, napping can have several benefits. Napping can reduce sleepiness, improve learning, aid in memory formation, and help regulate emotions. Napping can also have negative effects depending on the person. It can interfere with the ability to fall asleep at bedtime, especially for those struggling with insomnia. Taking long naps has also shown an increase risk for diabetes, heart disease, and depression.
• The human body naturally craves a nap in the midafternoon, usually around 2-3 p.m. This is because of the body’s circadian rhythm, which manages our sleep-wake cycle.
• According to studies done by the Sleep Foundation, the amount of time we spend napping tends to decrease as we get older.
• According to sleepfoundation.org, the best nap requires several steps. The first is to set an alarm as the best length of time for a nap is 10-20 minutes. The second is to nap earlier in the day to ensure that you are still able to fall asleep at bedtime. Lastly, a comfortable napping spot is needed.

In the News and Trending in the US for National Napping Day

Top things to do in the US for National Napping Day

• Take a nap. Set an alarm, find a comfortable spot, and let your worries disappear.
• Work on improving your sleep schedule. Naps are great for making up for that lost sleep or just feeling refreshed in the afternoon, but having a good nights sleep is the best remedy. 7-8 hours are recommended for most adults.
• Find the best napping spot. It should be free of distractions and a comfortable place. Somewhere dark, cool, and quiet is best.