You may not know, but sleep has many health benefits for each person.

Research has shown that short naps provide numerous health benefits. The difference in physical health is noticeable between those who take naps and those who do not.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Japan has the highest average life expectancy in the world, at 84.2 years, with men living to an average of 81.1 years and women to 87.1 years. In addition to high healthcare standards, the secret to the longevity of Japanese people lies in their healthy lifestyle habits and good living environment.

Research has demonstrated that short naps provide numerous health benefits. Research has shown that short naps provide numerous health benefits.

However, overwork remains a major issue in Japan over the years. To minimize the negative effects of stressful work, napping during working hours has been encouraged. Experts believe that resting properly helps people recharge their energy, improve work efficiency, and reduce stress in daily life.

A study shows that although the Japanese sleep an average of 6 hours and 35 minutes per night, they often take short naps to supplement their energy. Many scientific studies have confirmed the excellent health benefits of taking a nap.

Boosting Immune System and Improving Memory

A 2015 study by the University of California (USA) showed that short naps help enhance the immune system and reduce the risk of illness, potentially contributing to longer life.

According to a 2008 study by Harvard University, naps also play an important role in improving memory and learning ability. This is a special benefit for students and workers, especially those who need to absorb new information daily.

Managing Stress and Enhancing Mental Health

The habit of napping also has a positive impact on mental health. Taking a nap helps reduce stress and fatigue accumulated throughout the morning, improves mood, and creates a sense of relaxation. The Japanese have maintained this habit to maintain stable mental health and enjoy a better quality of life.

Naps and Longevity

A short nap can help enhance the immune system, reduce the risk of illness, and contribute to a longer life (Illustration).

A "Cure" for Cardiovascular Health, Reducing the Risk of Death

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that maintaining a nap habit is directly linked to longevity, particularly in the Japanese community.

The study followed thousands of people over a long period and found that those who napped regularly tended to live longer than those who did not practice this habit. Specifically, those who took naps from 20 to 30 minutes every day had a lower death rate from cardiovascular diseases and age-related illnesses.

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that maintaining a nap habit is directly linked to longevity, particularly in the Japanese community.

The research also pointed out that short naps help lower blood pressure and have positive effects on the circulatory system. This explains why the nap habit can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

A study by the American Heart Association also reached similar conclusions, stating that napping can reduce the risk of heart disease. Those who nap regularly tend to have better blood pressure control and lower the risk of heart disease.

Note: Long Naps May Have the Opposite Effect and Increase the Risk of Illness

The ideal nap duration to benefit health is a question many people are interested in. According to scientific studies, a nap lasting only about 5 minutes is not effective enough. However, a 10-minute nap can quickly reduce fatigue and improve mental clarity for at least 2.5 hours.

The ideal nap time is between 20-30 minutes, which enhances work ability and performance. However, after waking up, you may feel a bit groggy.

If a nap lasts from 45-90 minutes, it can be harmful. A deep but incomplete sleep within this time frame can make you feel uncomfortable upon waking, with symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and grogginess, as the body is not fully prepared to function again.

Sleeping too long during the day can also be associated with narcolepsy, a sleep disorder with symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, frequent napping, and difficulty staying alert. This condition, if prolonged, can increase the risk of thyroid disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, depression, and dementia.

Therefore, a 20-30 minute nap is ideal for health. Those who maintain the habit of taking short naps at least three times a week can reduce their risk of dying from heart disease by up to 37%. If they nap daily, the risk can be reduced by an additional 64%.