UK: Weary workers seek siesta

Workers want a siesta during the day to help recharge their batteries, according to a new report released in the UK today.

A survey of 4,300 adults by budget hotel chain Travelodge showed that most believe 40 winks during the working day would be beneficial to body and mind and would help them to become more productive.

One in four of those polled said they would want shops to close if the siesta became part of the British way of life.

Wayne Munnelly, director of sleep at Travelodge said: “Individuals should build in a few minutes ’downtime’ each day to recharge batteries, whatever your profession, and employers should take note of today’s results.”

In response to the findings, Travelodge is hoisting the siesta campaign flag today by installing hammocks at its head office so weary staff can enjoy a short afternoon rest.

Professor Jim Horne, of the Sleep Research Centre at Loughborough University, commented: “A nap is nature’s way of overcoming that afternoon ’dip’ in energy levels when we find it difficult to concentrate and think clearly, leading to mistakes.

“A short nap, or siesta, will restore alertness and improve productivity for the rest of the afternoon.”