Happy National Napping Day!

If today finds you fighting the urge to close your laptop “just for a second,” you’re not alone… and you’re also right on time. National Napping Day is this week on March 11, Bruins! In honor of this day, we’re taking a closer look at why naps matter in college, and how UCLA’s campus might actually be the perfect place to get one in.

Naps have many benefits, including boosting performance, improving memory and enhancing mood and emotional regulation, according to the National Sleep Foundation. The best time of day to take naps is between 1 and 3 p.m., when the body naturally experiences a dip in energy. Scientists say that naps should only last between 15 and 20 minutes to maximize health benefits and avoid feeling groggy from waking up during deeper sleep stages. 

Libraries on campus are always a good place to nap, with comfortable chairs and a quiet atmosphere. While the weather is warm, outdoor areas such as the lawn surrounding Janss steps, the Botanical Gardens and the Sculpture Garden can be good places to nap as well, especially with a hammock. Additionally, the BruinHub spaces, located in John Wooden Center and Strathmore Building, contain reservable pods for temporary rest. Check out the UCLA Semel Healthy Campus Initiative Nap Map at the link below for other places to nap at UCLA.

This National Napping Day, consider giving yourself permission to pause. Your brain, your body and even your GPA might thank you. Now close your laptop, set an (earbud) alarm and enjoy a well-earned nap!