Sleep is a universal need, but how we approach it can vary wildly across individuals and cultures.
While some people stick to conventional routines, others adopt sleep habits that might seem downright peculiar.
Here are six of the most bizarre sleep habits from around the world, along with the intriguing facts that make them so captivating.
1. Dolphin Sleep: The Art of Unihemispheric Slumber
What it is: Dolphins sleep with one half of their brain at a time, keeping the other half awake. This allows them to surface for air and remain alert to predators.
Human twist: Some polyphasic sleepers (people who take multiple naps throughout the day) attempt to mimic this state of semi-wakefulness to optimise productivity. While humans can’t fully replicate unihemispheric sleep, pulling off a state of "restful alertness" is part of practices like yoga nidra.
Interesting fact: Studies show that people can exhibit "sleep state dissociation" in extreme conditions, like when they're sleep-deprived, where parts of their brain might briefly "switch off" while the rest stays awake.
2. Sleeping Upright Like Horses
What it is: Horses can sleep standing up, locking their legs in place with a unique anatomical adaptation called the "stay apparatus."
Human twist: Some monks and historical figures, including Leonardo da Vinci, are rumored to have slept upright in chairs to keep their rest efficient and their minds sharp.
Interesting fact: Modern urban myths suggest that sleeping upright (in airplanes or recliners) can occasionally lead to better REM cycles due to reduced physical pressure, but it’s usually not as restful as lying flat.
3. Segmented Sleep: A Sleep Pattern from the Past
What it is: Before the industrial revolution, many people practiced "biphasic sleep," dividing their night into two sleep segments separated by a period of wakefulness.
Human twist: Historical accounts describe people using the wakeful interval between their "first sleep" and "second sleep" for reading, prayer, or even socializing.
Interesting fact: Modern research suggests that segmented sleep aligns with our natural circadian rhythms and may help some insomniacs feel less stressed about waking during the night.
4. Sleeping with Animals (Literally!)
What it is: Some indigenous tribes, such as the Himba people of Namibia, sleep alongside their livestock for warmth and safety.
Human twist: While most of us don’t sleep in a barn, nearly 67% of pet owners in the UK let their furry friends sleep in their beds.
Interesting fact: Sharing a bed with pets can lead to fragmented sleep due to movement, but studies show that the emotional comfort often outweighs the disruptions.
5. Extreme Polyphasic Sleep: The Uberman Schedule
What it is: Extreme polyphasic sleepers take only 20–30-minute naps spaced throughout the day, reducing total sleep time to as little as 2–3 hours.
Human twist: The idea is to hack your sleep cycle to maximise productivity, but this method requires rigorous adherence to avoid sleep deprivation.
Interesting fact: Leonardo da Vinci and Nikola Tesla are rumored to have adopted similar schedules, but there’s little evidence they followed them for extended periods. Most experts agree that polyphasic sleep is unsustainable for long-term health.
6. Fear-Induced "Segmented Sleep" in Korowai Tribes
What it is: The Korowai people of Papua New Guinea sleep in treehouses built 20–50 feet above ground to avoid potential threats like wild animals and rival tribes.
Human twist: Although their sleep is often interrupted by the need to stay alert, the Korowai's lifestyle reflects an adaptive balance between safety and rest.
Interesting fact: Anthropologists believe that our ancestors likely followed similar "alert sleep" patterns to survive in predator-heavy environments.
Final Thoughts
Sleep habits reveal fascinating insights into our biology, history, and adaptability. Whether it’s adopting unconventional schedules, sleeping with animals, or even attempting upright snoozing, our quest for a good night’s sleep continues to inspire creativity and curiosity.
To learn more about how REM-Fit can help you achieve better sleep, please email us at sales@rem-fit.co.uk.
