Taking a short nap during the day isn’t just a guilty pleasure—it might actually be good for your brain.
A recent study led by researchers from University College London and the University of the Republic in Uruguay, using data from nearly 40,000 participants in the UK Biobank, found a compelling link between regular napping and brain health. The findings suggest that people who nap regularly have larger total brain volumes—an indicator often associated with better brain health and slower cognitive aging.
In fact, the difference in brain volume was equivalent to 2.6 to 6.5 years less brain aging when compared to non-nappers. That’s like turning back the clock just by catching a few midday Z’s.
But before you stretch out for a long snooze, there’s a sweet spot: the benefits were most notable in short naps lasting 10 to 30 minutes. These “power naps” appear to offer a protective effect on brain structure without interfering with nighttime sleep.
This research adds to a growing body of evidence that moderate, mindful daytime rest can be more than just refreshing—it might be an easy, natural way to support long-term brain health.
🛏️💤 So go ahead, take that nap—your brain will thank you.