Need a Nap? Sleep Like a Baby

Napping is a good idea, but afternoon slumber eludes many of us. Mental Floss offers some pointers for adults who have trouble snoozing while the sun shines.

• Don't fight it: Humans are hardwired to hit the sack twice a day.
• The optimal nap length is 20 or 90 minutes.

• Sleep for longer than 45 minutes but less than 90 minutes and you're guaranteed to wake up groggy.
• Lie down in the dark, and don't get too hot.
• Consider a white-noise machine or its low-cost alternative: a fan.
• If bedtime is soon, skip the nap.
• Quit that time-consuming job that lacks siesta benefits.

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