Maximizing Health Benefits of Post-Lunch Naps.

While a midday nap can replenish energy, it won't necessarily negate the health risks associated with insufficient sleep at night. Short naps of less than 90 minutes typically only include the lighter phases of sleep, not the deep, restorative sleep that you usually get throughout the night. Naps can be helpful in improving reaction time and memory, but it's best to keep them short, no more than 30 minutes, so they don't interfere with your next night of sleep. If you're chronically tired, consider seeing a behavioral sleep specialist for long-term solutions.