6 Smart Strategies to Snatch a Nap at the Office

Sleep and work often don’t mix. Our culture believes that napping at work is a sign of rudeness and

laziness. It is also considered an office taboo, a sign of inattentiveness and unproductivity. But

recently, napping at the office has become a buzz, thanks to Japanese firms that have been

advocating it.

Many Japanese companies acknowledge that compatriot employees sleep less on weekdays than

those in other nations with an average of six hours 22 minutes on work nights. Companies, to

compensate for the lost sleep times, allow their employees to take at least a 20-minute nap.

Science agrees

Science backs the practice of power napping at the office. Even though doctors prefer 7-9 hours of

quality sleep, a 20-30-minute power nap can improve mood, attentiveness, and memory of sleep-

deprived workers. This energy jolt during lunch can result in productivity boost in the afternoon.

A 20-minute nap – also known as stage 2 nap – is ideal for attentiveness and motor learning skills

such as playing the piano. Napping longer than this (within 30-60 minutes) improves your memory

and creativity.

Some American companies are starting to feel the benefits of a well-rested workforce. Aetna, the

US-based insurer, is giving cash incentives to workers who sleep at least 7 hours on work days.

Napping strategies

But not all companies are as considerate to their employees’ sleep needs as Aetna. If you always

suffer from sleep deprivation because of various reasons, you may use some minutes of your break

to take at least a 20-minute power nap by snatching some of your time doing these tips:

Know your company policy on sleep – Before you attempt to take a nap, find out first if your office

allows you. For some companies, getting caught napping on CCTV even for just once might result in

serious disciplinary actions or even termination.

If your employer is against napping at work, you might find other places (such as in your car or a

restroom) where you can get at least a 15-minute nap.

Find a quiet and dark spot – If your office is lenient to napping, then find your napping place that

suits you best. Here are some suggestions:

In your car – This is possibly the safest and most comfortable, but also riskiest place. Just

make sure that your car is parked near your office and set your alarm clock.

In the restroom – Not the most hygienic, office toilet is a quiet destination for a quick nap.

Just make sure it is clean and not frequently used.

In the conference room – Aside from being spacious and quiet, this room is rarely used

during lunch or at break time.

At your desk – You can use your chair to doze off or, if possible, on your desk (just make

sure it can carry your weight).

Under your desk – Still finding the best use of the space under your desk? It can be best for

napping. Just make sure you have perfect sleeping gears for a power snooze.

On an office couch – Make this furniture extra hospitable by making them a sleep pod. Just

don’t forget to place an additional covering that act as a bed sheet.

Nap after lunch – An afternoon siesta currently has a scientific backing. A power nap after lunch

can get you recharged for the next half of your workday.

Avoid coffee, carbs and sugar at least an hour before your nap – Just like in your nightly full-

length sleep; you also need to condition your body before you take a siesta. Avoid foods that boost

your energy 1 or 2 hours before nap time.

Use sleeping props – While you cannot lie down on a most comfortable mattress, but a good set of

sleeping accessories can make your body cozy enough for a short doze. Use sleep mask, earplugs,

sleeping bags or other tools for a better nap.

Set an alarm – Your office napping time is limited. Don’t forget to set the alarm to avoid being

embarrassed or receiving a memo because of oversleeping. A 20-minute siesta is enough for a

recharge.

More and more companies are accepting the benefits of napping to make their employees more

productive. Take this opportunity to make napping a part of your work habit by doing the strategies

mentioned above.