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Health Tip: Napping Do’s and Don’ts

(HealthDay News) -- A nap can improve mood, performance and alertness, says Mayo Clinic. But sleeping at the wrong time or for too long can backfire.

Mayo suggests the best way to nap:

• Keep naps between 10 and 20 minutes.
• Take naps in early afternoon.
• Nap in a quiet, dark place with few distractions.

Before resuming activities after a nap, give yourself time to wake up. Allow yourself extra time if the activity requires a quick or sharp response.