Napping

S. C. Medrick, S. P A Drummond

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (Book)Researchpeer-review

Abstract

The afternoon hours are commonly associated with decreased motivation, productivity, and alertness. This midday dip does not depend on a prior meal, has been reported across cultures, and represents a physiologic diurnal nadir in our circadian rhythm. Throughtout history, napping behaviour has been utilized as a sleepiness countermeasure. Recent evidence shows that napping may also be an effective tool for performance enhancement. Studies have shown that naps are as effective for learning as a night of sleep. Similar to nocturnal sleep, sleep stages, electroencephalographic (EEG) power densities in naps have been correlated with specific types of memory consolidation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Neuroscience
PublisherElsevier
Pages1-6
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9780080450469
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes

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