What is Power Napping?

Many of us find it beneficial to have a quick nap during the day – although this isn’t always possible if you work in an office environment, unless you are able to set time aside in your lunch period! In some countries, power napping or ‘siestas’ are more common, particularly those with warmer climates such as Spain and Italy. These short naps are a cultural practise in Japan and are known as ‘inemuri’. Taken during the day, often in public and in work settings, it is considered a sign of dedication and hard work, whereby a short rest is needed during busy schedules.

What are the benefits of a power nap?

A short power nap has been linked with several benefits including reducing stress and fatigue, by offering a quick re-charge to our brain so we’re more focused for the tasks ahead. However, there is a knack to ‘power napping’ and so we’ve provided some further details below.

Is taking a nap a common occurance in adults?

Recent studies have found that 65% of people take naps, with the average length being about 33 minutes – and 68% of nappers are parents of children under the age of 18. Unsurprisingly, those who work from home most of the week are also big nappers.

person taking power nap on sofaperson taking power nap on sofa

What is the best length of time for a power nap?

Power naps are best taken in the early to mid-afternoon when energy levels naturally dip. Short naps are best – around 20 minutes.  If you nap for too long, this can make you feel groggy, rather than refreshed. In fact, even just resting for 20 minutes can be beneficial, even without actually falling asleep.

What is the best environment for a nap?

Somewhere that’s cool, quiet and dark is ideal for a restful power nap. Set an alarm to wake you gently and prevent oversleeping.

lion taking afternoon naplion taking afternoon nap

What should I avoid when power napping?

As mentioned above, too long a nap can have the opposite effect. Rather than feeling focused or re-energised, you’re more likely to feel groggy. Excessive napping may also interfere with your nighttime sleep. So, if you find that a power nap disrupts your sleep, then try adjusting the timing or length of your nap. If you find your naps are getting longer then this could be a sign of sleep deprivation and so should be discussed with your doctor.

What does natural bedding have to do with naps?

If you are having to nap for longer every day and still feeling tired, this may be due to restless nights. You might be waking up during the night, feeling too hot or too cold and this disruption means your sleep cycles are irregular and incomplete. To help achieve a more peaceful sleep, opt for bedding made with 100% natural materials, such as wool. Wool is breathable and temperature regulating, working with you and the ambient temperature in your bedroom, to help keep your core body temperature balanced whilst you sleep. Wool is also naturally resistant to dust mites and micro bacteria, so is hypoallergenic and hygienic.

handcrafted duvet from Devon Duvetshandcrafted duvet from Devon Duvets

What makes a Devon Duvets wool duvet so special?

Our experienced seamstresses individually handcraft our duvets in our Devon workshops and using traceable 100% British wool. We never use chemicals to wash our wool, because we want it to stay as natural and sustainable as possible, which makes it better for you - and the planet.  Each duvet is designed and created with a lovely drape to provide a luxurious sleep experience – and this can only be achieved through individual handcrafting to ensure the perfect tension in the stitching…and not too much stitching. Many types of duvets must be boxed stitched to keep the loose filling in place and, thereby, creating a less flexible duvet. However, because our wool is needled into layers, it can be stitched into the 100% cotton casing, using minimal stitching to hold it in place. We are also proud to have been awarded membership of the Guild of Master Craftsmen - and are the only soft bedding company to have been accepted as members. This is testament to our commitment to sustainability and high quality. All these things make our duvets stand out from those that are mass produced on large roller machines and ‘hand finished’. Find out more about the importance of handcrafting.

We also offer a range of gorgeous pillows and mattress toppers, each one also individually handcrafted here in Devon. If you have any questions about any of our products, and which might best suit your requirements, then please get in touch with the team and we’ll be happy to help.

 

Always consult your doctor or a medical professional if you are experiencing on-going difficulties with sleep or feeling fatigued.