Napping can be good for you

SHORT BREAKS CAN LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE, ENHANCE RESILIENCE TO STRESS

- Hein Kaiser

Life's a yawn if you don't get enough sleep and, according to research published on the internet, South Africans rank among the most tired folk globally.

According to a Stellenbosch Business School study and a World Health Organisation (WHO) paper on burnout, published earlier this year, Mzansi's people may be diligent workers, but at a substantial opportunity cost.

With late nights, early mornings, and a relentless work culture, sleep has become a casualty of modern life, and the statistics are sobering, said Rudo Kemp, chief executive of modular mattress and pillow company Sloom.

According to the Stellenbosch Business School study, one in three adults don't get enough sleep and 36% of workers face extreme daily stress.

Women aged 18-25 are particularly affected, with 56% reporting burnout. "It's not just about feeling tired," Kemp said. "The hustle culture and long hours have pushed sleep to the backburner and that's impacting our health, well-being and economy."

The WHO reported that sleep debt costs the economy billions every year in absenteeism, accidents and loss of productivity. "It affects every aspect of our lives, from mental health to productivity."