As a mom with small children, you are well aware of the benefits of a nap for your little ones. You know that when they get cranky, whiny, unruly, easily frustrated, or just plain mean, it is time for a nap. And when they wake up later, you usually see a completely different child with a much more pleasant disposition.

So, why can't this work for adults? American society frowns on midday sleep for adults. But, studies show, napping can increase productivity, reduce stress, increase learning capabilities, and lead to improved health. In many European, Latin, and Asian countries, napping is a way of life. In those areas of the world, instead of seeing someone as lazy and unproductive because she has taken a nap, they greet each other with, “How was your nap today?”

For example, in Spain, the entire country has a2-3 hour break from work or school in order to enjoy a huge lunch with several courses, and take a nap or “siesta” from about 2:00pm to 4:30 or 5:00pm. Everyone in Spain enjoys this afternoon break, including government workers and school children. After their nap, everyone returns to their schedule and their day runs longer than ours in the US, however, they embrace this time for rest and recharging their batteries.

New research may suggest that a daily nap may reduce the risk of heart disease due to reduced stress levels. (Dimitrios Trichopoulos, MD.) Scientists and physicians have both researched the Mediterranean culture for years and their low incidence of deaths associated with heart disease. According to Florida cardiologist Gerald Fletcher, MD, of the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, “It makes sense that lowering stress levels with a daily siesta or even a semi-siesta could benefit the heart,” he says. “We are increasingly recognizing the importance of sleep in cardiology.” (Webmd, 2/12/07.)

There aren't many downsides to napping, but many benefits such as improved reaction time, improved mood, improved concentration, and calmer behavior (patience!). Even if you aren't a daytime sleeper, you'll reap the benefits by stretching out and relaxing for 20-30 minutes just to clear your mind and rest your body – some call this meditation – which produces the same kind of brain waves as light sleep.

The next time you put your child down for a nap, take one for yourself! The laundry, dishes, and the pile of work on your desk will still be there later, and you will feel much more positive and energized about tackling all of the jobs that await you. So, what are your thoughts on the nap issue?

Suzanne Wells is an eBay Power Seller, eBay Consultant, and mom of 2 in Atlanta, GA.