Working from home during the pandemic certainly has its fair share of challenges, but it also has its perks – such as a seconds-long commute, more time to exercise and, perhaps, the opportunity to squeeze in a much-needed afternoon nap.

So instead of reaching for another cup of coffee during the afternoon slump, perhaps trade in a few minutes of your lunch break for some extra shut eye. Not only would you be in good company (with famous figures such as Albert Einstein and Leonard Da Vinci both favouring an afternoon nap), but there are also plenty of unexpected benefits to napping.

Not only are short 15- to 30-minute “power naps” great for bringing an extra burst of energy and alertness, but longer naps (if you’ve got the time) are even shown to benefit learning, memory, and cognitive function. As John Axelsson and Tina Sundelin explain, the many complex neural processes that take place while we nap are largely responsible for helping our brain stay in good shape.

Researchers have also answered questions about how the human brain differs from that of our closest evolutionary relatives by taking the extraordinary step of using ancient genes from Neanderthals to grow “mini brains” in the lab.

And Stephen Reicher highlights the need to maintain new links between academia and policymakers forged amid the pandemic. The article marks the launch of the International Public Policy Observatory (IPPO), a new initiative to inform post-COVID policy making with the latest global research. The Conversation is a partner of the project.

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