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Bizarre Sleep Traditions from Around the World

Sleep is one of the most basic human needs, but the way people approach it can be vastly different depending on culture and location.

While some societies value long, uninterrupted slumbers, others have developed strange and fascinating sleep customs that might seem odd to outsiders.

Sleep traditions showcase the diverse ways that people prioritise rest in their daily lives. Below are some of the most bizarre sleep habits practiced around the world.


Japan: Inemuri (Sleeping on the Job)
  • In Japan, it’s socially acceptable (even encouraged) to nap at work or in public.
  • This shows dedication, as it's seen as a result of working hard, not laziness.

 

Spain: Siesta
  • The siesta is a traditional afternoon nap, taken after lunch, particularly in hot climates like Spain.
  • The habit emerged due to the need for rest in the heat of the day, but modern urban life has reduced its practice.

 

Norway and Sweden: Napping Babies Outdoors
  • In Scandinavian countries, parents believe fresh air is vital for babies, so it’s common to leave infants to nap outside, even in the cold!
  • It’s believed to build their immunity and promote better sleep.

 

Indonesia: "Fear Sleep"
  • People in certain parts of Indonesia believe in “fear sleep,” where they force themselves to sleep in response to overwhelming stress.
  • It’s thought to calm the mind and prevent it from spiraling into panic.

 

Italy: The Ancient Art of "Susseguire"
  • In some rural parts of Italy, people practiced “susseguire,” where families slept in shifts throughout the day and night.
  • This tradition ensured someone was always awake to protect livestock and the family home.

    These napping habits and sleep traditions show how cultural values shape our approach to rest.

    What seems strange to one culture may be perfectly normal in another, highlighting the diverse ways humans adapt to their need for sleep.

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