Combining coffee and a nap: it seems completely opposite and yet, it is indeed the principle of the caffeinated nap. What does it consist of ? Explanations from Dr Jonathan Taïeb, sleep specialist, founder of the Sleep Institute in Paris.
Coffee is usually associated with the morning, to give yourself a boost to wake up well. But drinking it before a nap is more original! However, this is the principle of the “coffee nap” or caffeinated nap.
What is the principle of the caffeinated nap?
Coffee contains caffeine, a substance that acts on our brain to stimulate it. This process takes around thirty minutes, on average. Combining coffee and a nap therefore allows you, after drinking your drink, to close your eyes while the caffeine begins to take effect on the brain.
Instead, it is recommended not to fall asleep deeply, but to favor a short nap of 10 to 20 minutes. Once you get up, the caffeine will take over. “The caffeinated nap allows you to combine the benefits of the nap and the coffee” confirms Dr Jonathan Taïeb. “It’s an easy practice to implement, which the American army, for example, uses” adds the specialist. This therefore allows you to benefit from both the rest acquired thanks to the nap and to continue with that of the coffee!
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A scientifically proven method
Do you have doubts ? If this method seems like a miracle, it would indeed work and its effectiveness has even been scientifically proven. Several studies demonstrate its positive effects on volunteers when driving or on those taking memory tests. In both cases, the performance of those who received a “coffee nap” was better.
The most difficult thing, ultimately, is to be able to give yourself time to rest and manage to close your eyes for 20 minutes to be in good shape. “Also pay attention to the time at which you take this nap. warns the doctor. “This should not be at the end of the day, as this could interfere with falling asleep in the evening. concludes Jonathan Taïeb.
