What's Up Docs? Should you take naps?
10 snips
Oct 21, 2025 
Professor Russell Foster, a leading expert in circadian neuroscience from the University of Oxford, joins the conversation to decode the science of napping. He discusses why people nap differently and shares his own 25-minute napping technique. Learn about the brain's sleep stages, and how short naps can boost cognitive function. Foster also highlights studies linking regular napping to brain health while cautioning against long naps. He offers tips for the ideal napping routine and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep for overall well-being.
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Champagne Trick Turned Horrific Holiday Story
- Chris told a family-holiday story where a champagne opening went wrong and he cut his hand badly.
- The chaotic scene involved blood, a delighted toddler, a dog and much embarrassment.
Use A 20-Minute Nap For A Quick Reboot
- Set an alarm for 25 minutes so you get about a 20-minute nap plus time to fall asleep.
- Use short naps to regain sharpness and improve decision-making later in the day.
Naps Recalibrate Brain Networks
- Short naps shift brain activity from a diffuse default-mode network to an executive network.
- That circuit reset underlies measurable improvements in performance and reaction time after naps.
