Whether you’re the type who falls asleep ten minutes after climbing into bed, or you’re an insomniac who has tried everything to get a few more hours of snooze time, you may be interested in an infographic which has revealed how our sleep compares to those living in different countries around the world.
If you’re a napper, you’re in luck, as it turns out that a study by NASA indicated that those who nap for more than two hours each day have both better concentration and memories than their napless friends. As someone who has never been able to nap I may resent this, but it may be time to give napping another try due to the amazing benefits- benefits which aren’t surprising to those living in African and Mediterranean countries where it’s normal to sleep through the heat of the day.
Germans aren’t doing too badly when it comes to sleep, getting an average of 8 hours and one minute of sleep on days when they’re not working. They could do better on work nights, though, when they get an hour less- especially since studies have shown that they perform best with an average of 7 hours and 31 minutes of snooze time each night.
We all know that people living in the United States aren’t getting enough sleep, and a tiny 4% feel that they’re rested each night. Americans are only getting around 6 and a half hours of sleep on work nights, and need a minimum of 42 more minutes each night to feel better.
Canadians are doing better than their American neighbours with 7 hours and 3 minutes most work nights, although this still isn’t optimal since 53% of people report having bad sleeps. They actually need at least 19 more minutes of sleep each night.
If you think the Americans have it bad, try living in japan. While those living away from the main cities get around 6 hours and 22 minutes each night, if you live in Tokyo you can expect to be getting by on just 5 hours and 46 minutes…that makes me tired just thinking about it. Napping is encouraged in Japan though, and bosses like to see evidence of their employees being sleep deprived since it’s a sign that they’re hard workers.
Mexicans are doing well, with around 7 hours and 6 minutes of sleep each night, although they actually need at least an hour more than this in order to perform at their best. Those who live in Mexico city are only getting 6 and a half hours each night, around 2 hours less than they need.
The Brits aren’t doing too badly on non-work nights, with an average of 7 hours and 26 minutes, but they’re lacking on nights when they have work, with just 6 hours and 49 minutes.
How do your sleep habits compare to those around the world? If your country was mentioned, are you getting the right amount of sleep or do you think you could go to bed a little earlier and feel great the next day?
