What's Up Docs? Doctors' Notes: Napping
Oct 21, 2025
Join Professor Russell Foster, a circadian neuroscience expert from the University of Oxford, as he dives into the intriguing world of napping. Discover why some people fall asleep with ease while others struggle. Explore cultural variations in napping habits, from Spain's siestas to Japan's power naps. Russell highlights how sleep needs shift with age, the impact of short naps on cognitive functions, and the genetic factors influencing our napping tendencies. Uncover the fascinating science behind our craving for rest!
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Use Short Controlled Naps
- Use short, controlled naps (power naps) when you need a quick reset during the day.
- Keep them brief so you remain in lighter sleep and avoid uncontrolled microsleeps.
Napping Is Normal In Many Workplaces
- Russell describes workplaces in Japan and China where many people rest at desks after lunch.
- He contrasts that with Western stigma against napping tied to work ethic beliefs.
Siestas Shift Sleep Timing Not Total Need
- Siestas of about 90 minutes let people complete a full non-REM cycle and shift nighttime sleep shorter.
- Cultures with siestas compensate by shifting social schedules rather than preserving long night sleep.
