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Naps have positive cardiovascular impact
Author: Jonathan Warren
Taking an hour long nap in the afternoon could help lower blood pressure and relieve stress according to new research from the US.
Investigations by Ryan Brindle and Sarah Conklin, PhD, from Allegheny College Pennsylvania, found that individuals who snoozed for between 45 minutes and an hour in the daytime had lower average blood pressure than those that did not.
Modern pressures such as shift work, increased anxiety and the use of television and internet before bed have all made an impact on nocturnal sleep and the average sleep is now two hours shorter than half a century ago.
Brindle and Conklin said: "Our findings suggest that daytime sleep may offer cardiovascular benefit by accelerating cardiovascular recovery following mental stressors.”
The research team went on to say further study was needed to establish if siestas could be used as a “recuperative” or “protective” measure to aid cardiovascular health.