Learning about the global sleep culture has always been on our agenda. United by many commonalities including sleep, different countries bring their own set of unique traditions and infuse a certain meaning to their sleeping habits. Getting a rundown on the food and tourist spots before travelling is important, but have you ever looked into the sleep culture of other countries? Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

• Inemuri

Perhaps the most popular practice known widely is Inemuri or ‘napping in public’ in Japan. The country’s work culture is strenuous and working overtime is an everyday reality. In order to beat fatigue, employees are encouraged to take a nap at their work desk, while being ‘present’ at the moment. People can often be seen napping in the subways, parks and even in meetings that don’t require their active participation.

• Siesta

Post their mid-day meals, balmy afternoons call for a short nap for the families of Spain. The tradition seems to have kicked off with farmers doing fieldwork all day and taking rest in the warm afternoons to recharge their bodies. The tradition seems to have now undergone changes with the new generation working full-time jobs and avoiding these naps. Children and the elderly continue doing so, while many just run errands or enjoy long lunches.

• Babies sleeping in the cold weather

Parents in the Nordic countries of Scandinavia leave their babies in strollers outside for exposure. This is commonly practised by parents while they’re having their coffee at cafes or running some errands at local stores. ‘Extremely low temperatures are not an inhibiting factor as many believe that the cold weather induces a deeper sleep and also keeps pathogens away.

• Naked slumbers

As per the National Sleep Foundation, the UK loves to sleep naked with nearly 1 in 3 Brits napping with no clothes on. This tops the statistics of any other country surveyed around the world. Many backs the practice with the health benefits associated like improved circulation and healthy skin.

• Polyphasic sleep

Sleep in 2 phases as opposed to one extended period of rest is a common practice in Egypt with many of them opting for 6-hour sleep sessions in the evenings and 2-hour naps in the afternoons. Research shows that such segmented sleep patterns can help mitigate the harmful effects of sleep deprivation.

Pretty cool right? Know more interesting sleep habits practised in other countries? Comment below!