Taking a nap: When it helps and when it hurts

Instead of thinking of napping as something "good" or "bad," it makes more sense to see it as a tool. When used well, a short nap in the early afternoon can be an excellent boost to energy, focus, and well-being. Poorly managed, especially when it is long, irregular, and used to compensate for chronically poor sleep, it can contribute to maintaining the problem and, in some cases, signal increased health risks.








