The siesta is connected to Spain's Mediterranean climate and agricultural heritage because, historically, agricultural workers avoided the intense midday heat with a siesta. While most people in Spain don't regularly nap during their siestas these days, napping offers health benefits to those who do. For example, it can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve concentration (Romaniello, 2023). Napping can also improve creativity since the brain is better rested after a nap. On the other hand, Spanish people sleep less overall (at 7.13 hours) than people in northern Europe (Shubert, 2024). This is largely due to the late dinners and lifestyle in Spain.
Overall, the Spanish siesta is a reminder to pause and enjoy life. In the U.S., we often hold values like efficiency and productivity that are at odds with the siesta tradition. It has been a refreshing change of pace to embrace a simpler, slower life. I’m excited to incorporate this mindset into my life when I return to the U.S.
Sources / Additional Reading
BBC. (2017, June 12). It’s time to put the tired Spanish siesta stereotype to bed. https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20170609-its-time-to-put-the-tired-...
Romaniello, A. (2023, July 27). The origin of the siesta: cultural exponents in Spanish courses. Instituto Hemingway. https://www.institutohemingway.com/blog/901/the-origin-of-the-siesta-cul...
Shubert, A. (2024, March 27). Spain’s siestas-and-late-nights lifestyle is making some people unhappy. Here’s why. CNN Travel.
