Is taking a nap after lunch a good thing or not? Opinions are divided on this. Cardiologists and psychologists recommend an afternoon nap - according to an American-Greek study from 2007, it reduces the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by 37%.
Among Ayurveda followers, daytime sleep and in particular sleep after lunch is considered a red rag - but is that really true? We get to the bottom of the question.
The fact is:
„Sleep increases Kapha, regenerates nerves and senses, nourishes our body and creates happiness and longevity“, described the Charaka Samhita 2000 years ago. A good night's sleep was regarded as „sleep par excellence“.
Daytime sleep, on the other hand, is viewed more critically in Ayurveda. The classical scriptures contain precise information about who benefits from daytime sleep and who is at a disadvantage to their health.
During the day, the body fire „Agni“ burns stronger than at night and is responsible for regulated digestion, maintaining our body temperature and active metabolism. If we sleep during this time, the Agni functions are weakened and Kapha increases unnaturally - digestive disorders and sluggishness can be possible consequences. From a Western point of view, sleep lowers the basal metabolic rate, i.e. energy consumption at rest.
Kapha constitutions and people with Kapha-related illnesses such as obese people or diabetics (type 2) should avoid all daytime sleep. Sleep is also highly contraindicated after consuming fatty substances. If this is ignored, swelling, oedema, mucous diseases and skin diseases can increase.
On the other hand, the elderly and children, weakened, emaciated and underweight people, night workers and mentally stressed people can benefit from daytime sleep. Daytime sleep is particularly recommended on long, hot summer days - firstly because of the shorter nights and the associated lack of sleep, and secondly because of the midday heat, which robs the body of energy.
Conclusion:
There is also an Ayurvedic siesta - but it is not suitable for everyone. In ancient India, great importance was attached to healthy digestion and this is correct. In today's Central Europe, however, the factor of stress reduction and „coming to rest“ plays an increasingly important role. A midday nap inhibits digestion and promotes stress reduction.
The solution is nevertheless possible - a short nap in a darkened room for a controlled period of 5-20 minutes without falling into a deep sleep. In Asia and America, this is known as „power napping“ and is part of everyday working life in many companies. Sleeping for longer than this disrupts the biological circadian rhythm.
My tip
Check the advantages and disadvantages mentioned, try it out and feel for yourself. If you are one of those people who suffer from the famous „soup coma“, check and change your food intake first. After all, a nap is not a solution for unhealthy eating habits.
With best wishes for your health,
Ralph Steuernagel
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