Local doctors say residents should consider a midday siesta to recharge mental and physical batteries.

The latest Journal of Sleep Research says there is a great deal of power in a power nap. Doctors say it only takes 10 to 30 minutes of naptime to be rejuvenated for the rest of the day.

Director of Norwalk Hospital?s Sleep Disorders Center, Edward O?Malley, PhD, says a quick afternoon snooze can boost performance, lengthen life and sharpen memory. However, O?Malley says anything beyond the recommended 10 to 30 minute nap can have adverse effects.

?You don?t want to go too long because then you get into deeper stages of sleep and you can awaken more groggy than before you laid down,? O?Malley says.

O?Malley also suggests combining a catnap with a coffee break.

?Have the coffee, take a 10 to 15 minute nap and then you?ll wake up with the caffeine effects and the refreshed brain and nobody will be able to hold you back at that point,? O?Malley says.