Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Siesta Culture


A siesta is a short nap taken in the early afternoon, often after the midday meal. Such a period of sleep is a common tradition in countries like Mexico, Spain, and Italy. The word siesta is Spanish, from the Latin hora sexta - "the sixth hour" (counting from dawn, therefore noon, hence "midday rest").

The original concept of a siesta seems to have been merely that of a midday break intended to allow people to spend time with their friends and family. A midday nap is perfect for reducing stress and shortening the amount of workload on an individual. This is why these cultures are proven to have less stress than the American culture. Instead of the American view of ultimate production without rest and the “go-go-go” attitude, the Spanish and Italian culture experience a more relaxed pace of life with their siestas.

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