A recent study published in PLOS Biology reveals that a short 20-minute nap can significantly improve complex problem-solving abilities. Researchers at the University of Hamburg found that deep sleep helps establish mental connections not perceived while awake.
The experiment involved 90 participants who performed a point-tracking task. After a 20-minute nap, brain activity was monitored using electroencephalography (EEG). Approximately 71% of participants experienced an "eureka" moment, discovering a task-simplifying trick. Those reaching N2 sleep showed an 86% success rate, compared to 56% awake and 64% in N1 sleep.
EEG patterns showed that a steeper spectral slope, linked to deeper sleep, correlated with sudden inspiration. The findings support the idea that sleep, especially a short nap reaching the N2 phase, can boost creativity and problem-solving. Experts believe these micro-naps can be a useful tool for fostering creativity and introspection.