One thing we all love, and probably don’t get enough of, is the almighty power nap! In a recent article from Dr. Maoshing Ni, a renowned “Longevity Exerpt,” it is said that power naps can actually save your life. As many medical documents and statistics have shown, the leading killers of Americans is coronary heart disease. Dr. Ni reminds us that the stress of every day living can exacerbate heart disease, and that these statistics do not have to be so grim. One way to avoid this deadly ailment, is through stress management – and one great way to manage stress levels, is through power napping.

As you may know, our bodies work on a rhythm basis – the circadian rhythm. This natural system regulates our bodies’ ups and downs, and has a great impact on our overall well-being. If this circadian rhythm is out of balance, the effect can reach all areas of our lives. Dr. Ni mentions that in Chinese medicine, it has been determined that noon is the peak hour for the heart. He advises that powernapping at this peak, or just engaging in calming activities, will effectively nurture and protect the heart. According to Dr. Ni, studies show that “people who napped 20-30 minutes every day were 30 percent less prone to heart disease than those who didn’t take a midday snooze.”

The definition of a power nap may differ from person to person, but experts advise that power naps should only last between 15 and 30 minutes. Sleeping for any longer will get you into deeper stages of sleep, from which it is difficult to awaken.

With the knowledge and medical advice we are equipped with in this day and age, there is no excuse for us to allow our lives and bodies to teeter on the brink of this deadly disease. With the right lifestyle choices, and a healthy amount of rest, we can better mange our health and longevity.