What do people think when they first hear the word nap? Everyday sayings like taking a nap, getting caught napping, snoozing, or stealing forty winks are all beneficial daily activities we need to add to our busy lives. If we do this, we will be more awake and able to reach our full potential as an individual. People don't realize how important a nap can be. Although popular belief suggests that naps are a waste of time, they actually increase productivity by resting the brain. Napping Basics To get the full benefits of napping, there are a few “rules” that must be followed. Following these guidelines will ensure maximum effectiveness. One condition is that naps are taken in the early afternoon. Naps can interfere with nighttime sleep if taken after 4pm (Jacobs). They should also be short. Research suggests taking a fifteen to thirty-five minute “power nap.” This is the time needed for the body to rest and allow brain neurons to recover (“Unknown Benefits”). A comfortable environment is an important part of a good nap. Clothing, from tie to pair of shoes, should be loose-fitting, and if possible, naps should be taken in a place free of interruptions. Thoughts should be directed towards relaxing activities, “pressure-free” thoughts. It's also important not to feel pressured to fall asleep. If the brain needs rest, sleep will come ("mental rejuvenation"). Famous "Nappers" Many great figures in history have utilized nap necessities to near perfection. Winston Churchill was one such figure. For him, naps were essential: “You have to sleep between lunch and dinner, without half measures. Take off your clothes and get into bed. This is what I always do. D...... middle of paper...... March 21, 2012. .Mednick, Sara Ph.D. "Caffeine Can't Replace a Nap to Improve Memory." NIMH•. Network. March 21, 2012. .Scott, Elizabeth MS “Sleep Benefits: Naps for Greater Productivity.” The New York Times Company. Network. March 21, 2012. "Mental Rejuvenation in 20-Minute Naps." Pioneering thinking. Dec.-Jan. 2009. Network. March 21, 2012. .NIMH "'Power Nap' Prevents Burnout; Morning Sleep Perfects a Skill." NIMH•. July-August 2002. Network. March 21. 2012. .