Spanish Siesta

WE ALL SHOULD HAVE A SIESTA

One of the things that a traveller in Spain should pay attention to, is the daily siesta. The siesta usually begins at 1:30 or 2 p.m. and lasts about three hours and during these hours almost every place is closed.

One of the reasons for siesta are the hot midday hours when it is almost impossible to work. Besides the climate, it is common to have the largest meal of the day in the afternoon. Having a siesta may be a natural result of this large meal.

The original purpose of a siesta was merely to be a midday break with friends and family. A nap was not necessarily part of the daily siesta. Other suggestion is that the long length of the modern siesta dates back to the Spanish Civil War, when many Spaniards worked multiple jobs at irregular hours, pushing back meals to later in the afternoon and evening.

Nowadays, the term siesta refers to a short nap taken after the midday meal. Siestas are traditionally no longer than 30 minutes and are more of a light rest. In recent years, studies have suggested a biological need for afternoon naps. The body is on a 24-hour body clock, which makes you wind down between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. and again in the three hours directly after lunch. Researchers found in the studies that it was easiest to fall asleep at night and in the afternoon. Scientists have even uncovered how brain cells or 'neurons' that keep us alert become turned off after we eat. Unfortunately nowadays people in the big cities like Madrid or Barcelona do not have time for siesta anymore and this healthy habit is disappearing little by little. Let’s save the siesta!

HOW TO SLEEP A SIESTA

It is very important to have a good lunch with friends or relatives before siesta. After an enjoyable lunch and by following these instructions, you will get the best out of the siesta time.

Disconnect all telephones.
The best place to have a siesta is in bed and in pajamas, but if a bed is not available, a comfortable sofa is almost as good option.
Timing is very important. A siesta should last between 30-40 minutes, no more.
Don't let anything disturb you. If there is something that helps you to fall asleep, like tv or radio, use them.
The best way to wake up from a siesta is to hear a delightful human voice. If you don't have anybody near, use an alarm clock.
Right after the siesta, a glass of water and a piece of chocolate will make your life easier.