Lea Mattress wants to take you on a trip around the world.
Don’t worry - aeroplanes, passports or suitcases filled with face masks and anti-bacterial gel are not required.
Hop on board with Lea Mattress as we investigate how people catch some essential z’s around the globe. Some sleeping habits may surprise you - and inspire a healthier sleeping routine.
We’ve all dreamt of it: the boss announcing it’s time for a siesta.
And what is a siesta? A siesta, or an afternoon nap, is quite possibly the most renowned sleep custom. Between 2-4 pm in Spain, local businesses close their doors and workers take a break in the form of a nap.Big cities may not abide by the custom as much as smaller towns, but the nap is still a strong contender in improving workers’ performance and mood. And it results in the Spaniards having the latest bedtime in the world!
The Japanese have mastered multitasking. Having a little snooze at work, on public transport, on the steps of a shopping centre, or even at a dinner party is not just socially acceptable (if not encouraged) practice, but the sign of a hard worker. There is even a term for it: inemuri – being present while asleep.
Nightmares can ruin anyone’s sleep. Hence, worry dolls have been a long-standing companion at bedtime. Guatemalans, (particularly children), tell these little wood or wire dolls their fears, worries and troubles at bedtime and then place the doll under their pillow for a worry-free night.
Their neighbour, Mexico, has a similar idea for a healthy sleep routine.
Nearly two-thirds of Mexicans wind down for bedtime by either praying, meditating, or reading a book. A peaceful bedtime ritual can help improve the quality of sleep.
Want to know the secret to giving little Vikings a head start in life? In Finland, Sweden and Norway, parents leave their babies to sleep outside for their naps – be it winter or summer. Babies in prams, wrapped up in blankets, is a common sight outside houses or even shops. The fresh air improves babies’ immunity, mood and sleep quality.
Although the Chinese have a lunchtime nap too, one’s sleep environment is crucial for healthy sleep. A firm mattress to support back alignment is a must. When designing your bedroom, Feng Shui plays an essential role. For example, mirrors shouldn’t be near a bed and high headboards mean good luck.
The Chinese must be onto a winner as people in China record the most sleep – more than nine hours per night!
Studies say that 1 in 4 people in the UK ditch the pyjamas and snooze in the nude instead. As reduced body temperature signals to the brain it’s time for sleep, this could improve sleep quantity and quality. Maybe it’s time to reconsider the new PJs on your Christmas wish list…?
On average, one-third of our life is spent sleeping, yet recent research finds that most people in the UK are sleep deprived.
Are we missing out on the benefits of a good night’s sleep? Are our sleeping habits up to scratch?
With sleep being associated with improved immunity, better mental health and mental agility, perhaps we could take inspiration from other countries. Although working hours, culture and lifestyle all determine a country’s sleeping habits, Lea Mattress picked out the best international tips for a healthy sleep routine.
How many hours of sleep are you getting? The average recommendation for adults is 7- 9 hours per night. If you’re falling short, opt for an earlier bedtime.
Still tired? Consider a power nap! Even a 20-minute nap boosts your brain and improves motor performance. With more people working from home than usual, your bed is just a few steps away.
Leave the stresses of the day out of the bedroom. Make your bedtime routine peaceful – pray, meditate, read, or do what makes you feel calm and happy.
It might be too cold to keep the window open but consider flooding your bedroom with fresh air before bedtime. Just fifteen minutes of ventilation improves air quality significantly.
Your bedroom should be a place of rest – keeping it clutter-free and aesthetically pleasing will help. Make it your place of comfort.
A suitable bed and mattress play a key role. A supporting mattress will stop you from waking up with aches and pains. Have a look at our Lea Mattresses and bed frames for premium sleep!
Dulces sueños – sweet dreams from Lea Mattress!
