In this article
Inemuri: the Japanese nap that increases productivity
file
If your boss catches you napping at your desk, he probably won’t give you a raise. However, a nap can improve your performance… if you meet some conditions. In Japan they know everything: they discovered the benefits of ‘Inemuri’ centuries ago.
Read also: Is the afternoon nap or “power nap” really healthy?
What is Inemuri?
© Getty Images
Inemuri is an ancient Japanese practice that literally means “being present while you sleep.” In fact, it involves dozing or sleeping in public. And it doesn’t matter where and under what circumstances: on public transport, at work or during a meeting. In Japanese culture, Inemuri is seen as a sign of dedication to one’s work. The person in question is so busy with his responsibilities that he can afford to doze in public.
One of the reasons why sleeping in public is so common in Japan also has to do with Japanese sleeping habits. A 2015 study found that nearly 40% of adults sleep less than 6 hours a night.
Read also: Do you need less sleep or sleep worse as you get older?
How is Inemuri performed?
Although Inemuri is widely accepted in Japan, there are some implicit social rules that you must abide by. Inemuri is a nap of no more than 15 minutes. It’s actually more of a quick energy break than a deep sleep. Napping should also be done while sitting. Even if the sleeper is mentally “absent,” he or she must be able to return to the current social situation when active contribution is required.
Read also: Should you sleep 8 hours a night?
What are the benefits of a nap?
A nap should last 20 minutes or less to be useful. In that case:
- improves alertness.
- reduces fatigue.
- improves mood and reduces stress levels.
- improve cognitive (memory, concentration) and physical performance.
- Productivity gets a boost.
- improves heart health.
Longer naps can lead to a feeling of sleepiness, also known as “sleep inertia.” It is also advisable not to take naps too late during the day so as not to disturb your sleep.
Read also: Is sleeping good or bad?
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com
https://www.bbc.com
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
https://www.sleepfoundation.org
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Last update: January 2024
Health articles in your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter and receive a free e-book with healthy breakfast recipes.
Related Articles
Related sections
2024-01-22 23:01:56
#Inemuri #Japanese #nap #increases #productivity