Europeans urged to adopt napping culture for better health

A Monocle article argues that northern Europeans should embrace napping, citing health benefits and cultural precedents. The piece notes that 72% of Chinese take daily half-hour naps, according to the China Sleep Research Society. It contrasts northern European attitudes—where naps are seen as unproductive—with practices in China and southern Europe. The author, James Chambers, reports from a Bangkok wellness clinic where his telomeres were found shortened due to insufficient deep sleep. BDMS Wellness Group's CEO claims to lengthen his telomeres through early bedtimes and healthy habits. The article suggests that longer summer days in northern Europe hinder early sleep, making naps a practical alternative. It references OECD data showing Japanese average six to seven hours of sleep nightly. A 2026 study indicated that eight hours may not be ideal. The piece concludes by questioning whether, as AI and climate change reshape work and temperatures, Europeans should adopt Eastern napping wisdom.