Home LivingWellnessSleepSleep expert reveals why you should never nap for longer than 10 minutesThe answer will shock youWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Home LivingWellnessSleepSleep expert reveals why you should never nap for longer than 10 minutesThe answer will shock youWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
The answer will shock you
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Freepik)
(Image credit: Freepik)
The festive season is often packed with late-night celebrations, family commitments and the pressure of gift shopping – all of which can wreak havoc on your sleep schedule. That’s why a lot of us rely onthe perfect napto recharge, especially amidst the holiday chaos.
However, Adeel Ul-Haq, a sleep expert fromComfy Beds, advises that whilst napping can be an excellent way to energise, overdoing it might leave you feeling even groggier. Striking the right balance is essential, and according to Adeel, the ideal nap should last no longer than 10 minutes.
Keep reading to discover why a 10-minute nap is so effective, and why it’s all you really need.
Why does napping work?
Adeel explains that “Adenosine is a naturally occurring molecule that builds up when we’re awake, making us feel sleepy and ready for bed at night. However, for some people, this sleep pressure can become overwhelming, leading to difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and irritability. Taking a nap can help reduce this sleep pressure, giving your brain and body a much-needed reset.”
Why shouldn’t you nap for longer than 10 minutes?
“Whilst you may think napping for longer is better, the sweet spot for a nap is around 10 minutes. This will give you a quick energy boost without you feeling groggy. A 10-20 minute nap is also good for improving your focus and short-term memory and stops you from entering deep sleep.”
Entering deep sleep during a nap can be problematic because you don’t complete the full sleep cycle. As a result, you may experience sleep inertia – a groggy, disoriented feeling that can leave you more tired than before the nap.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Find outthe shocking reason why you should make your bed every daynext.
Samsung Galaxy S25: every leak, rumour and spec we’ve heard before the launch eventThis is everything we’ve heard about the new handsets
This is everything we’ve heard about the new handsets
This case turns your iPhone or Android phone into an e-reader, but there’s a catchActually, there are a couple…
Actually, there are a couple…
Nutritionist reveals 3 foods you should eat before bed to stay warmStruggling to stay warm during the night? Try eating some of these
Struggling to stay warm during the night? Try eating some of these
Are headbands the new sleep technology trend?
Hatch’s latest sunrise alarm clock finally has a phone-free design – and I’m obsessedHatch launches the Restore 3 wake-up light and it could drastically improve your mornings
Hatch launches the Restore 3 wake-up light and it could drastically improve your mornings
This ERA mattress topper can turn your mattress into a smart sleep tracking deviceThe ERA Smart Layer is my favourite wellness product from CES 2025
The ERA Smart Layer is my favourite wellness product from CES 2025
This pillow flip sleep hack can help you beat Christmas insomnia – and it takes secondsIf you love the cold side of the pillow, you’ll love this quick sleep hack
If you love the cold side of the pillow, you’ll love this quick sleep hack
Ozlo Sleepbuds review: exciting work in progress sleep earbudsHave the brains behind Bose perfected sleep headphones?
Have the brains behind Bose perfected sleep headphones?
Nectar’s best memory foam mattress is $837 off in this Black Friday dealGet up to 50% off mattresses and accessories in the Nectar Black Friday deals
Get up to 50% off mattresses and accessories in the Nectar Black Friday deals
