What is sleep?
Q: What is sleep?
A: Sleep is a state of resting, where animals including humans become unconscious and relaxed. During this time, they will not react as quickly (if at all) as they would if they were awake.
Q: Why is sleep important to human health and well-being?
A: Sleep is extremely important to human health and well-being because it allows the body to be prepared for the next day. Everyday activities, one’s appearance, and how one expresses oneself all rely on getting enough sleep. Not allowing a person enough sleep can lead to struggling to remember information, altering one’s mood, energy, health, focus and a number of other effects. It can even be used as torture. Additionally, the immune system releases compounds known as cytokines which are used to help fight inflammation and infection; if a person does not receive enough sleep, they will not have enough cytokines to protect them from getting sick. The body may also not have time to complete memory recollection, muscle repair or release hormones that regulate growth and appetite.
Q: What happens during siesta?
A: Siesta is a tradition in some countries (most notably where the weather is warm) where people take a nap right after noon or early in the afternoon while stores and services close while their owners/employees take their siesta break.
Q: How long should naps last?
A: Naps should run between 15-30 minutes for successful rest; longer naps taking 30-60 minutes will result in feeling dazed and less attentive.
