October 15, 2010 03:53 by
Dustin
Have you ever found yourself nodding off during the work day, furiously searching the pantry for a caffeine fix, or locking yourself in your car to try and steal a quick power nap during your lunch break? Have you ever found yourself vowing to pay a pretty penny for the chance to grab some shut-eye without getting caught by your boss? Napping during work hours may be opposed to by many, including managers and other leaders, but some organizations have stopped resisting the mid-afternoon urge to slumber- many offices globally are bringing sleep pods into their work setting.
This may sound like a crazy idea but numerous companies are beginning to embrace the idea of approved naps throughout the day. Companies like British Airways, Google, Nike, Pizza Hut and Procter & Gamble have implemented policies that permit employees some naptime in the office. These workers agree that taking a quick nap during the day is a lot more effective than a cup of coffee or a candy bar. Being encouraged to take a quick nap after lunch seems like everyone’s dream—including mine.
Former Harvard researcher Sara C. Mednick wrote a book titled, “Take a Nap! Change Your Life!” Authentic research led to some undeniable arguments in the book. First off, napping increases memory and productivity among the workforce. Secondly, it decreases heart disease and stress. There are plenty more positives in the book from restoring proficiency in a variety of critical skills to 51% of the workforce reporting that sleepiness on the job interferes with the amount of work they do.
As time goes on, we may be looking at napping as a necessity, not just as a tool for slackers. Don’t get too excited yet, however, because only 5% of the United States employers are allowing their workers to take a nap during the day. If your company isn’t part of that 5% statistic but you are local to New York City, you can stop by the YeloSpa for a Power Nap in a “yeloChair” – a zero-gravity experience where your knees are lifted above your chest allowing your heart rate to slow down. A 20 minute nap will cost you $15.
Dustin Willoughby
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