Being well-rested and alert are essential for safe driving. But, sometimes, because of the demands of the job, getting enough sleep, the kind that leaves you rested and refreshed can be difficult.
That’s why it makes sense to consider taking a nap when your driving schedule allows.
The National Sleep Foundation reports, “A recent study in the research journal Sleep examined the benefits of naps of various lengths and no naps. The results showed that a 10-minute nap produced the most benefit in terms of reduced sleepiness and improved cognitive performance. A nap lasting 30 minutes or longer is more likely to be accompanied by sleep inertia, which is the period of grogginess that sometimes follows sleep.”
The foundation also said naps can restore alertness, enhance performance, and reduce mistakes and accidents. It cites a study of sleepy military pilots and astronauts that found a 40-minute nap improved performance by 34 percent and alertness 100 percent. It also claims napping has positive psychological benefits. It said, “A nap can be a pleasant luxury, a mini-vacation. It can provide an easy way to get some relaxation and rejuvenation.”
Image via: AHealthBlog
