Work hard, nap harder: How different countries embrace rest breaks at work

NEUROLOGISTS have proven that napping improves mood, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive performance.

Due to these benefits, many recommend incorporating napping policies in workplaces since it can help improve employees' performance.

Just 15 to 30 minutes of napping at work can refresh the brain and increase work efficiency. Due to the proven advantages, many advanced countries have been incorporating rest breaks in the office.

1. Japan - The Culture of 'Inemuri' (Sleeping While Present)

In Japan, 'inemuri' symbolises hard work, referring to workers taking any opportunity to nap, whether in public or at the workplace. While napping is considered lazy in certain cultures, in Japan, the more you 'inemuri' indicates that you are a better worker.

Companies like Google Japan and Toyota allow their employees to take naps during work hours in order to improve their focus and reduce fatigue.

2. China - The Tradition of 'Wǔshuì' (Afternoon Nap)

'Wǔshuì', which stands for noon naps, has been a part of the traditional Chinese workday, and is allocated in most tech and large corporations to boost workers' concentration and creativity during the second half of the day.

Alibaba and Huawei have been doing this, with nap spaces provided during lunch breaks.

3. Spain - The 'Siesta' Tradition

'Siesta' stands for a short nap taken in the early afternoon. While it is not promoted nationwide, its benefits are well-known in smaller and rural areas.

Workers traditionally take a break in the afternoon to rest, often after lunch. Businesses there may close for a couple of hours to allow employees to recharge.

4. Italy - The 'Riposo' Culture

In Italy, particularly in small towns, the 'riposo' break resembles that of the Spanish 'siesta', where during the afternoon, businesses will close for a few hours to allow employees to rest.

This is seen in many family-owned businesses where workers would take time to relax before continuing their workday.

5. United States - Increasing Popularity in Tech Companies

Tech-centric companies like Google and Cisco have been incorporating napping in their workplaces by designating napping rooms. They have become more common, with the value of rest for increased creativity and productivity being recognised more.

The employees would take brief naps during the day to improve focus, innovation, and overall performance.

6. South Korea - Midday Rest

South Korean workplaces are known for their long working hours, with recent initiatives encouraging naps during the day to combat fatigue. Some offices have even designated nap spaces for employees.

This allows workers to cope with the high pressure in their work culture, preventing burnout and improving focus, especially for employees working in competitive fields.