Did you know that in the UK, a staggering 207,000 working days are lost annually due to insufficient sleep?
Behind this number lies the annual cost of lost sleep to the UK, amounting to around £50 billion.
Yes, you read that right!
The impact of insufficient sleep on employees extends beyond tired eyes and yawns—it's hitting our economy, workplaces, and overall well-being.
Lack of quality sleep affects productivity, cognitive function, and overall health. From workplace accidents to decreased efficiency, the consequences are real.
If employers embraced workplace napping, this option could produce a comparatively more marked and sustained increase in productivity
However, the effects of insufficient sleep and the benefits of quality rest can be balanced and regained through healthy sleep practices and lifestyle accommodations.
Taking a nap at work is a healthy and effective way to maintain balance, especially when
You stay consistent
Put off all electronic devices before taking that nap
Keeping a rest or sleep diary
Studies have shown that napping during the day for 20 minutes can enhance memory retention, sharpen your focus, and lower your blood pressure, propelling you to new heights of productivity and success and giving you an edge at work.
David Radcliffe, VP of real estate and workplace services at Google, said in an interview with CBS,
“No workplace is complete without a nap pod.”
Gone are the days when CEOs boasted about surviving on minimal sleep, wearied by the relentless pursuit of success. Today, the narrative is shifting, and it's a welcome sign of progress.
They are now openly sharing their commitment to a balanced lifestyle, celebrating the importance of quality sleep even at work, and recognising its profound impact on their well-being and productivity.
Some companies like Google, Uber, Nike, Cisco, Zappos, and Huffington Post are investing heavily in their employee well-being by providing them with spaces to take a rest at work.
We can invest in employee sleep to yield long term benefits by fostering sleep-friendly workplaces and embracing a culture that values the importance of rest.
We can do this by
Promoting a supportive sleep environment at work
Providing a dedicated nap space such as the Rest Space
Encouraging naps for restoration.
Raising awareness about the impact of sleep on overall well-being.
Together, we can create workplaces that recognise the importance of sufficient sleep.
It's time to break the stigma by normalising naps in the workplace, prioritising rest and building a culture that values the health and productivity of everyone.
Rest Space is offering to elevate your workplace wellbeing through a sleep engagement initiative.
Take advantage of this as we approach Sleep Week 2024 in 5 weeks.