Taking a short nap in the middle of the day may not align with the pace of modern life, but it remains an important tradition in many cultures. In some countries, this habit is supported in workplaces, while in others, it is considered a natural part of daily life. This napping tradition, particularly common in Asian and Mediterranean countries, not only provides rest but also supports mental and physical health. So, in which countries has the afternoon nap become a cultural norm, and what names do they give to this tradition? Here are the afternoon nap habits from different regions of the world!
1. Vietnam: Afternoon Nap as a Tradition!
In Vietnam, it is quite common to see people napping in offices, parks, and even cafes during lunchtime. The Vietnamese call this short afternoon nap “ngủ trưa” (ngủ = sleep, trưa = noon). Due to the hot climate, people have developed the habit of taking a short nap during the hottest hours of the day to conserve their energy.
🔹 A unique detail: In some workplaces in Vietnam, employees place a mat or a small bed under their desks to take a nap!
2. Spain: The Famous “Siesta” Culture
The Spanish “siesta” tradition refers to a 20-30 minute nap break after lunch. This custom is particularly common in the southern regions, where the climate is warmer. Historically, it was adopted by agricultural workers. Although this habit is gradually declining in major cities, some workplaces still support it.
🔹 Interesting fact: Siesta is not only about sleeping; for some Spaniards, it is also a time to read, relax, or enjoy quiet moments.
3. Japan: Sleeping at Work? “Inemuri”
In Japan, the afternoon nap culture exists in a different form. The practice called “inemuri” (居眠り) literally means “sleeping while present.” However, the Japanese do not see inemuri as a proper afternoon nap; instead, it is a brief dozing-off session while sitting or even standing.
🔹 Impact on work culture: Since overworking is common in Japan, inemuri is also seen as a sign of a hardworking person resting while staying at their workplace.
4. China: The “Xiuxi” Tradition
In China, the afternoon nap is known as “xiuxi” (休息) and is a common habit, especially among students and office workers. Many schools in China allow a short rest period after lunch, and some workplaces also permit employees to take a quick nap.
🔹 Interesting detail: The Chinese Constitution even includes a clause stating that workers have the right to rest during lunchtime!
5. Greece: “Mesimeri” Time
In Greece, the midday rest break is called “mesimeri” (μεσημέρι). This nap, usually taken after lunch, is seen as a way to cope with the Mediterranean heat. The tradition remains strong, particularly in rural areas.
🔹 Cultural impact: In the past, it was considered impolite in Greece to call someone or disturb them during mesimeri hours!
6. Italy: The “Riposo” Tradition
Italy also has an afternoon nap culture, known as “riposo.” In southern Italy, it is quite common for shops and businesses to close during midday hours.
🔹 Difference from siesta: For Italians, riposo is not just about sleeping; it is also seen as a time to spend with family or simply relax.
7. Middle East: The Traditional “Kaylule” Nap
In Arab culture, the afternoon nap, known as “kaylule,” is considered a recommended habit, even encouraged by Prophet Muhammad. It is mainly practiced to prevent energy loss and enhance mental alertness, especially in hot weather.
🔹 Effect in the modern world: While kaylule is still a popular tradition in some Arab countries, it is becoming less common in larger cities.
The Scientific Benefits of Afternoon Naps
Research shows that a short 20-30 minute nap has numerous benefits:
✅ Reduces stress
✅ Boosts brain function
✅ Enhances creativity
✅ Supports heart health
Afternoon naps, known by different names around the world, are not just traditional rituals but also effective methods for maintaining physical and mental well-being.
The History of Afternoon Naps: Where Did Humanity Adopt This Habit?
Afternoon naps are not just cultural customs but a natural resting process supported by human biology. Around midday, our body temperature slightly drops, and energy levels decrease—this is part of our circadian rhythm, the natural biological clock. So, how have people practiced napping throughout history?
🔹 “Sexta Hora” in Ancient Rome (Sixth Hour): The Romans referred to noon as “sexta hora” and commonly took rest during this time. The modern word “siesta” actually originates from this tradition.
🔹 Afternoon Nap in the Ottoman Empire: In the Ottoman period, especially during summer, afternoon rest was a common practice. Both in palace life and among the public, taking a “kaylule” nap was a widespread habit during the hottest hours of the day.
🔹 Resting Time in Confucian Philosophy in China: The centuries-old “xiuxi” tradition in China is rooted in Confucian philosophy, which promotes balance between physical and mental well-being. Afternoon naps were seen as an essential way to restore harmony.
🔹 Decline of Napping Culture After the Industrial Revolution: With the modern industrial revolution, continuous working hours became the norm, and napping habits declined, particularly in Western countries. However, some nations still uphold this tradition.
Afternoon Naps in the Modern World: Which Countries Support Them?
Despite the rise of technology and fast-paced work culture, some countries and companies are taking steps to bring back the afternoon nap tradition.
1. Google and NASA Experiment with Nap Pods!
In the United States, major companies like Google, NASA, and other tech giants have introduced special nap pods where employees can take a short “power nap.” Studies suggest that a 20-30 minute nap can boost productivity by up to 30%!
2. Siesta Culture is Reviving in Spain
Once on the verge of disappearing in major cities, the siesta culture has started regaining popularity in Spain in recent years. In some cities, shops close during midday to accommodate siesta hours.
3. Official Nap Spaces Are Being Developed in Japan
In Japan, many major companies are creating nap rooms where employees can take short naps during lunch breaks. In Tokyo, some cafes even offer special areas designed exclusively for short nap breaks.
4. Nap Time is Mandatory in Chinese Schools!
In many Chinese schools, students are required to take a 20-30 minute nap after lunch. Studies show that this practice enhances academic performance and improves attention levels.
What Does Science Say About Afternoon Naps?
Research conducted by institutions like Harvard and NASA has revealed numerous cognitive and physical benefits of afternoon naps:
✅ Boosts memory: Napping makes it easier to learn and retain information.
✅ Increases attention span: A short 20-minute nap helps maintain focus throughout the day.
✅ Reduces fatigue: Helps replenish energy levels after long working hours.
✅ Supports heart health: Regular naps can reduce the risk of heart attacks by up to 37%.
How Can You Incorporate Napping Into Your Daily Life?
With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, taking an afternoon nap might seem difficult, but you can adopt this habit with a few simple adjustments:
☑ Adjust the duration: A 20-30 minute nap keeps you refreshed without causing grogginess.
☑ Create the right environment: Sleeping in a dark space enhances melatonin production, making naps more effective.
☑ Keep your phone away: Screens can disrupt your sleep cycle, so it’s best to turn off your phone before napping.
☑ Make napping a habit: Taking a nap at the same time every day helps regulate your body’s biological clock.
Conclusion: Napping is Not a Luxury, It’s a Necessity!
From Vietnam to Spain, China to Greece, many cultures have embraced afternoon naps as a tradition for a reason. This habit is not only scientifically proven to be beneficial but is also gaining more recognition in modern society. With the increasing stress and exhaustion brought by today’s fast-paced life, maybe we all need a little more “siesta” time!
I’m getting sleepy just writing about it 🥱 So, which country’s napping tradition would you like to try? Share your thoughts in the comments! 😊 Sweet dreams, everyone! 🥱
