Afternoon naps may help your brain recover and learn.

A NeuroImage study reported that even brief afternoon naps can help synaptic connections recover and support learning, and sleep experts cited in the article recommend short naps (about 20 minutes) in the early afternoon with attention to environment and caffeine timing.

New research and prior studies link short daytime naps with benefits for the brain. A recent NeuroImage study found that even a quick rest can help the brain recover and improve its ability to learn, effects once thought to require a full night's sleep. Previous work has associated power naps with reduced brain shrinkage and preserved cognitive function with aging. Researchers also noted that the brain can reach a saturation point during the day, and that rest helps it reset without losing previously learned information. Key findings: - The NeuroImage study reported that after a 45-minute nap, synaptic connections were able to recover and were better prepared to take in new content. - Earlier studies linked power naps to prevention of brain shrinkage and maintenance of cognitive function as people age. - Researchers said any amount of rest can help the brain recover from daytime saturation without erasing earlier learning. - Experts quoted recommend short naps of up to about 20 minutes during the 1–3 p.m. siesta period to improve cognition and wakefulness, noting longer naps can trigger sleep inertia. - Some research has associated longer daytime naps with higher body mass index, higher blood pressure, and increased prevalence of metabolic syndromes. - Practical factors discussed in the article include a cool, dim resting environment, comfortable position, and avoiding midafternoon caffeine because it can disrupt sleep timing. Summary: Short daytime naps are reported to support brain recovery and learning, which may contribute to maintaining cognitive function over time. The article cites expert guidance favoring brief early-afternoon rests and attention to sleep environment and caffeine timing. Undetermined at this time.