Sona, kitna sona hai

A string of studies claim that an office catnap can go a long way in upping performance levels. iTALK finds out if desi workplaces are ready to let their employees snooze at work

Sona, kitna sona hai

A string of studies claim that an office catnap can go a long way in upping performance levels. iTALK finds out if desi workplaces are ready to let their employees snooze at work

Cynics have always maintained that "sleeping around" in office pays off, and we reiterate the point only, this time, we aren't talking about after-office hours. Don't start fantasising just yet; we're only exploring the possibility of a snooze-break at Indian workplaces.

Dr Ashok Mahashur, Sleep Specialist at Hinduja Hospital's sleep clinic, says it's a great plan. "It rejuvenates and revitalises a person." But offices must also ensure a healthy diet schedule, because sleeping after a heavy meal results in more sluggishness. He stresses theu00a0 need to earmark a specificu00a0 environment for resting. "People who work in cabins, have it easy, but those in cubicles shouldn't sleep on the chair. A designated area with a couple of recliners is ideal, with soothing music to help people make the most of a 5 to 10 minute nap. And of course, a mechanism to wake them up on time."

Given a chance, will the desi workforce use its forty winks to crack that million-dollar deal or waste it in lethargy? We planted the idea into the heads of some bosses. Most said employees will take a mile if given an inch, and office premises can't accommodate sleeping lounges.

Never sleep after eating

Dr Ravi Kothari Ayurveda specialist
Taking a short nap at work is a good idea. But never sleep after eating, since it increases Kapha, leaving you dull and unenthusiastic. After lunch, it's better to relax while sitting, or lie on your left side; this helps your Surya Nari get activated, and aids digestion.

Easy napping tricks
>>Keep this page handy, just in case your boss catches you.
>>Put your head down and say you weren't well.
>>You are just meditating, yaar.
>>One grand excuse is that you worked all night long. But be sure you have proof.

Corporates ko sone se kya faayda?
>>Rest can reduce errors, accidents, sub-standard output and crankiness.
>>Lowers absenteeism.
>>Prevents overconsumption of drugs and reduces medical costs.

Your catnap can lead to a better appraisal!
>>A 25-year study, by the MW Institute for Chronobiology, proved that for 92.5% of workers, an afternoon nap upped productivity and improved problem-solving skills. You not only do more, but do it better, too.
>>A US study showed that a 26-minute nap in flight (while the plane is on autopilot) enhanced crew performance by 34% and overall alertness by 54%.
>>A Harvard University research showed that a 45-minute nap improves learning and memory.
>>A 45-minute eye-shut causes rapid eye movement (REM), which boosts creativity.

Does desi working junta like the idea?

Will hamper work

Pranitaa Lokke Das Senior Marketing Manager, Sahara Filmy
In India, it's not a good idea. It will obstruct smooth work flow. I don't want my juniors to sleep at work; lunch breaks work well enough.

Needs monitoring, is impractical

Beena Koshy GM-Advertising and Brand Development, Bajaj Electricals
It's not a practical solution to battle stress. If someone is feeling sluggish, they can have a cup of tea or even head home. Napping will be successful only if properly monitored. Besides, there's always a space crunch. How can you lie down in a cubicle that's a cubbyhole?u00a0

Worth a try

Naresh Poojary Media Director, Madison Communications
In India, work never seems to get done. Labour laws are strict in European countries, where the maximum number of work hours limit can't be violated. Here, sab chalta hai. It won't hurt to give it a try, though I doubt it will work.

Even Churchill loved naps

Winston Churchill British politician
You must sleep sometime between lunch and dinner, and no halfway measures... Don't think you will be doing less work because you sleep during the day. That's a foolish notion held by people who have no imagination. You will be able to accomplish more. You get two days in one well, at least one-and-a half.

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