Get your snooze on

People who nap are often scorned as being lazy in our go-go-go society, but many cultures around the world consider it a healthy way to recharge (see: the siesta). In fact, a little midday snooze offers a host of benefits ranging from increased alertness to improved memory, but you’ve got to do it right. Here are a few pointers:

• Keep it brief: Napping for more than 30 minutes can leave you feeling groggy.

• Do it in the early afternoon: Before lunch is too early, and more toward evening may affect your nighttime sleep.

• Sleep on the sofa: You don’t want to trick your mind into thinking it’s time to shut down for the night, so don’t jump under the covers.

Source: Health.com