Depending on where you are or what you are doing, it’s normal to feel odd about taking a lunchtime nap. A nap is considered a short sleeping period lasting minutes, and health experts recommend taking naps during the day, especially if you didn’t get enough sleep at night. Sylvestre Twizerimana, a clinical psychologist working in Rubavu District, says although naps might not be for everyone, if there is need to, taking one can be helpful as it can make you feel better, and at the same time, it comes with health benefits. He points out that this is crucial especially if one feels exhausted or tired, probably because of too much work or lack of enough sleep the previous night. When you don’t get enough sleep, Twizerimana says, it can harm you in several ways including having trouble focusing or being productive. Taking a nap helps improve your memory as well cognitive function, which is good for one’s overall well-being. “When you take a nap, especially if you are always busy with work, it gives your body a chance to repair itself and reset for other activities,” he says. Omer Mayobera, a peace-building and development practitioner, says from a psychological point of view, naps restore alertness, as they bring back energy and focus thus preventing you from feeling overwhelmed or stressed. In fact, he says, the National Sleep Foundation recommends a short nap of 20 to 30 minutes for improved alertness and performance without leaving you feeling groggy or interfering with night-time sleep. In addition to that, Mayobera says taking a nap can help prevent burnout, which if not well looked into can cause stress and depression at the same time. “When it comes to handling emotions, taking a nap ensures greater emotional resilience thus improving your productivity,” he says. It is also believed that a nap reduces the risk of heart disease. Studies indicate that taking a nap could turn out to be an important weapon in the fight against coronary mortality. Emmanuela Mahoro, a Kigali-based psychologist working with young people, says taking a nap makes one more productive, as it ensures one manages their time. Getting used to it Mahoro says depending on one’s work environment, or what they do, if it allows, incorporating napping into your afternoon schedule and being consistent is vital. When it comes to being consistent, he says, have a nap at the same time every day as it helps stabilise your focal point and concentration level. Also, she recommends avoiding long naps which can make you feel tired after. This can also negatively impact night-time sleep, making 20 to 30 minutes ideal for a nap. Health experts also advise taking a nap in a closed room or alternatively, closing the curtain for an easier and more peaceful nap. While at work, Mayobera says since it’s hard to sleep at your desk while colleagues are present, “Use 30 minutes to eat and the rest for a nap where it is convenient for you,” he says.
