NODDING OFF: Naps can boost performance on the job

"Napping is a very powerful, very inexpensive way of improving our work."
-- Dr. Steven Howard



An afternoon snooze refreshes, revitalizes and recharges body and soul. Yet in our caffeine-buzzed society, naps are downright un-American.

Slamming Red Bull, hanging at Starbucks and draining quad-shots of espresso is a lot more socially acceptable as the "cure" for sleep debt.

And remember, if you snooze, you lose, right?

Not according to scientific research. The rejuvenating effects of naps has resurfaced in a new Stanford University School of Medicine study. Emergency-room doctors and nurses who worked overnight shifts and were allowed 40-minute naps showed a boost in alertness and performance over those who worked straight through.

Read more after your nap...