Name: Are naps actually good for us?
Uploaded: 2021-11-17T15:42:43Z
Duration: 2 min 17 s
Description: Afternoon naps are refreshing -- but could they be messing up our sleep cycles? Sleep scientist Matt Walker reveals the pros and cons of napping, plus tips on how to get the most out of your next short snooze.

Matt Walker: Are naps actually good for us?

Are naps actually good for us?

Afternoon naps are refreshing -- but could they be messing up our sleep cycles? Sleep scientist Matt Walker reveals the pros and cons of napping, plus tips on how to get the most out of your next short snooze.

Humans often feel a noticeable dip in alertness between one and four in the afternoon, and science shows this is hardwired into our brains. Evidence suggests our bodies may be built for biphasic sleep: a long stretch at night paired with a short daytime nap, much like siesta cultures worldwide. While short naps can boost brain and body health, long or late naps can disrupt nighttime rest. People who struggle to sleep at night are better off skipping naps and building natural sleep pressure for bedtime.