I took a nap the other day.  It was a very warm sunny day and I was surprised to feel really bushed in the late afternoon.  So, instead of pressing on with another task I climbed into bed and submitted to slipping into unconsciousness.  Ah...bliss!

Waking up I felt somewhat guilty that I had spent that hour so unproductively, but then I decided I might actually be able to count it as research time for this message!  I dug into the concept of the nap and found some interesting facts:

• Napping makes you more productive because after a good nap you are alert again and ready to work.  When you are tired you might be sitting at your computer, but the brain is not working efficiently.
• Compared to 100 years ago we are getting about 1.5 hours per night less sleep.  As a society we are chronically sleep-deprived and a little napping can go a long way to make up the deficit.
• A 2002 Harvard University study showed that a midday nap can help people learn new things and retain them better.
• A 2007 study in Greece showed that it reduces the risk for fatal heart problems, especially in men.
• Napping reduces information overload (National Institute of Mental Health study.)

These are all great excuses for a nap, but the real reason people will do it is because it is so enjoyable!  When you indulge just know it is not a waste of time.  You are taking good care of yourself and listening to your body's needs.  Come on, just close your eyes and drift off for a bit. 

Every dog and cat on the planet understands the value of a good nap.