Siesta
July 5th, 2009
The siesta is a tradition in many cultures and while the word “seista” is Spanish, from the Latin hora sexta or “the sixth hour” counting from dawn (making it the noon hour), the tradition of a midday nap actually has roots in Islam and is mentioned in the Koran. Romans also observed siesta and like Islam, siesta was focused more on health needs. But it was the Spaniards who centuries ago were credited with long midday rest to relieve farm workers from sun during the hottest part of the day.
Today, siesta is common in most Latin countries and can last from 2 to 4 hours. Since relief from midday sun isn’t always a real need, in many places the tradition of siesta has evolved into one that focuses on spending time with family. In San Rafael, Argentina, for instance, the entire town begins to shut down around noon and some businesses may not reopen until 4 or 5pm. During this long break, children come home from school, parents come home from work, a big lunch is prepared (often accompanied by wine) and then the entire family naps.
But because the observance of a long siesta makes for a much longer workday (consider that returning to work at 4pm would result in a workday that may not end until 9pm) and to accommodate international business practices, Spain eliminated the extended siesta for government workers in 2006.
However, studies do prove that a short nap during the day is very beneficial for our health and while we may not need 2 to 4 hours of rest, the tradition certainly has it’s appeal.
Categories: Argentina, Uncategorized | Tags: siesta
