drandherbs
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Registered 10-4-2006
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#1 No time to siesta? We can help
Siesta
A siesta, is a short nap taken in the early afternoon, usually after the midday meal. Such a period of sleep is a common tradition in China, India, across Europe and North Africa. It is typically thought of as only taken in hot countries, however, in some countries where afternoon naps are taken, such as Southern Argentina and Chile, the climate is similar to that of the UK.
It was also thought that siestas were just for countries with a slower pace of life but in recent years studies have suggested a biological need for afternoon naps. The body naturally winds down in the three hours directly after lunch. In some individuals, postprandial dip, a brief drop in blood glucose levels caused by the body's normal insulin response to a meal, may produce drowsiness after the meal that can encourage a nap. Siestas are traditionally no longer than 30 minutes and are more of a light rest than any kind of serious sleep ¨C more what we would consider a ¡®power nap¡¯.
Power nap
This is a short nap of just 15-20 minutes, thought by many to maximize the benefits of sleep versus time. The short duration of a power nap prevents nappers from entering Slow-wave sleep which usually happens after 60-90 minutes. Waking up after a person has entered this deeper state of sleep can result in groggyness.
Scientists have recently begun investigating the benefits of napping for performance across a wide range of cognitive processes. Some seminal studies on brain function after napping have demonstrated that naps are as good as a full nights sleep
SUPPORTING RESEARCH
Napping - Treatment for midday slump
'A study from the University of Pennsylvania Hospital shows that pilots, who sleep just 20 minutes during flights while their copilots take over, are more alert, attentive and responsive than those who don't nap'
In the learning of perceptual skills ¨C A nap is as good as a nights sleep
Research has shown that a nap is as good as a nights sleep in its effect on the brains ability to learn certain new skills
Unfortunately finding a convenient place to have your power nap is sometimes not so easy. So why not take advantage of Dr&HERBS' countrywide facilities or our new London City garden and catch 40 winks during a special relaxing massage or even whilst losing weight.
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