Sleep Myth Monday: Nap Time

This is the latest installment of a regular feature here at SleepBetter.org: Sleep Myth Monday, where we bust sleep myths wide open, or verify that they’re true.

Myth or Truth: Taking a nap during the day will keep you from sleeping well that night.

MYTH

…unless you take that nap in the late afternoon or early evening. A nap no longer than 30 minutes can re-energize you and help keep you sharp and creative during the day, while not keeping you awake longer into the night. Many cultures around the world value that midday “siesta” and many companies are starting to encourage power naps during the day. If you find you need more than 20-30 minutes naptime during the day to stay alert, that’s a clear indication that you’re not sleeping enough at night.