Have you ever wondered how Santa Claus manages to be so energetic while delivering presents? How does he remember who's been good and who deserves only a slap? And most importantly, how does he manage to stay focused on all the gift wishes? After all, he's an old man... And old people's memories can be tricky.

Santa Claus, however, is known for taking a nap whenever he has the opportunity. Sleep is a priority for him and allows him to navigate through all this information. Does he have a special method for this? Santa himself doesn't say much on the subject. So we decided to conduct our own private investigation. It wasn't easy, though... Because finding Santa asleep during such a busy pre-Christmas period is bordering on miraculous.

Santa, as we all know, isn't exactly a slimmer man. His large belly certainly doesn't allow him to sleep "on his stomach." And it's very likely one of the reasons for his mental success. Sleeping on his stomach is the worst possible option. It causes back and hip pain, and can exacerbate heartburn and reflux symptoms, which Santa might experience after devouring all the Christmas gingerbread. Sleeping on his back is probably out of the question, too. With Santa's weight, sleep apnea and snoring are very common. Mrs. Claus would surely complain to her husband that he's keeping her awake, and Santa himself would wake up exhausted in the morning. His famous "Ho, ho, ho!" would then sound like a sad cry of despair.

Therefore, it seems that the only solution to this conundrum is the side sleeping position . This position, as it turns out, not only ensures healthy spine alignment , but is also very helpful for sleep apnea and snoring. Furthermore, it alleviates acid reflux symptoms that can wake Mikołaj from sleep. Most importantly, according to the latest scientific research, the side sleeping position allows the brain to effectively cleanse itself at night of toxins that contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and memory impairment . And Mikołaj has an excellent memory.

Let's also remember that diet is crucial for both quality sleep and overall brain function . Fortunately, contrary to popular belief, Santa doesn't just eat cookies. According to information obtained by our investigators, his favorite dish is salmon fish soup! He also regularly snacks on nuts during his St. Nicholas duties. Foods rich in polyphenols, protein, and polyunsaturated fatty acids are excellent for nourishing brain cells and preventing memory problems. We shouldn't forget about his faithful elves, whose company undoubtedly benefits Santa's well-being and mental acuity. Because social interaction is crucial for brain development and function, and it's also linked to good sleep. But more on that in the next pre-Christmas newsletter!

Aleksandra Karykowska,

chronobiologist and member of the Sleep Research Society