What Is Nappuccino And How It Can Boost Your Afternoon Energy Levels

Have you also experienced that foggy, can’t-keep-your-eyes-open slump in the early afternoon? It is more than just a post-meal laziness. It’s actually linked to a natural dip in our circadian rhythm. But what if we told you there’s a hack called 'Nappuccino' that combines two of the best things in life, coffee and naps?  

What Is A Nappuccino?

“The ‘nappuccino’ is drinking a cup of coffee, right before you take a 20-minute nap,” said Keisha Sullivan, a sleep medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente in Largo, Maryland. “The idea is, when you wake up, you feel more refreshed when that caffeine kicks in.”

While you're taking that nap, your body begins to absorb the caffeine, which typically takes around 20–30 minutes to kick in. So when you wake up from your power nap, the caffeine hits right on cue, leaving you feeling recharged and ready to go.

Why Not Just Nap Longer?

If you’re thinking, “Cool, but wouldn’t a two-hour nap be even better?”, the answer is 'not quite'.

“Taking a 20- or 30-minute nap, you won’t go into REM, or dream sleep,” said Sullivan. “When you wake up out of REM sleep, that can make you more groggy.” Plus, there is also a bonus of not messing with your nighttime sleep schedule.

“So, we recommend (napping) for a short period of time to prevent any issues, when you get ready to go to bed,” said Sullivan.

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The Benefits Are Real

The combo of caffeine and a nap can do more than just keep your eyes open. It can actually improve your alertness, cognitive function, overall health and lifestyle. It is just like a mini-reset button for your brain.

And Dr. Sullivan also said, “After lunch, when you feel that midday slump coming on, I would take the ‘nappuccino’ at that time."

So next time you feel yourself fading during your 2 PM Zoom call or post-lunch lecture, do not forget to try a nappuccino, you might just wake up as your best self.