Sleep is universal, but how people sleep varies widely across cultures. From public naps in Japan to outdoor baby sleeping in Scandinavia, here are some of the most unique sleeping habits found around the world.
1. Inemuri (Jepang)
In Japan, it’s common to see people napping at work, on public transportation, or even during meetings. This practice, called Inemuri, means “sleeping while present.” Rather than being seen as laziness, it’s often considered a sign of dedication—proof that someone has worked so hard they need to rest briefly before continuing.
2. Outdoor Baby Naps (Scandinavia)
In Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland, it’s normal for parents to let their babies nap outdoors, even in freezing temperatures. They believe fresh air helps babies sleep better and strengthens their immune systems.
3. Sleeping with Worry Dolls (Guatemala)
In the Guatemalan Highlands, people use small handcrafted “worry dolls” to ease stress before sleep. According to Mayan legend, placing a worry doll under the pillow helps transfer anxieties to the doll, allowing for a peaceful rest.
4. Group Sleeping (Australia)
Among Aboriginal communities in Australia, sleeping in large groups is a tradition. People sleep closely together for warmth, safety, and social bonding. Typically, the strongest individuals sleep on the outer edges to protect the elderly and children in the middle.
5. Fan Death Myth (South Korea)
A long-standing belief in South Korea warns against sleeping with an electric fan on, as it is thought to cause fatal health issues. Although there is no scientific basis for this fear, many people still turn off their fans before bed as a precaution.
6. Sleeping Naked (United Kingdom)
Approximately 30% of people in the UK prefer to sleep without clothes. While this may be due to personal comfort, some also believe it helps regulate body temperature and improve sleep quality.
Each culture has unique sleep traditions, shaped by environment, beliefs, and lifestyle. Whether it’s napping in public, sleeping in the cold, or using dolls to manage stress, these habits reveal fascinating perspectives on rest.
