Siesta: A sacred aspect of Greek life

·

For centuries, the short nap between 3:00 to 5:30 pm has been recognised by the Greeks as a sacred tradition.

The practice focused mainly on small towns and villages, sees the late afternoon siesta as a time to re-energise the batteries to help with late night parties and events.

Photo: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries

Taken some time in the mid-20th century, a photo of an Athenian man sleeping on the stairs of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, shows how a late afternoon siesta provided a period of calm away from distractions.

According to health experts a brief period of rest can enhance functioning and rejuvenate the mind and body.

Source: Delicious

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Dr Christos Theologos: ‘Dance keeps us bound to our roots, from Chios to Sydney’

As part of the Zeibekiko Festival Australia, respected folklorist Dr Christos Theologos will lead a series of lectures and workshops.

South Melbourne turns to supporters ahead of Australian Championship kick-off

The opening clash of the Australian Championship will be an event shaped by the voices of the fans themselves.

Low birth rates and ageing: The silent enemy of the Greek nation

From the late 1990s it had become clear to Greek demographers and social scientists that the number of births in Greece was falling.

Peta Trimis: The new star of Australian football with a Hellenic soul

At just 19 years old, Peta Trimis is already being hailed as one of the brightest young stars of Australian football.

A second chance at life: Angelo Alateras’ journey from mechanical heart to transplant hope

After years on life support, 80kgs lost, and 615 days of physio, Angelo finally received the gift of a new heart.

You May Also Like

Theo Papageorgiou’s preventable death could help improve SA’s mental health laws

Theo Nickolas Papageorgiou passed away by suicide in January 2016 at the age of 27 after a long battle with mental illness.

Zoe Samios named as finalist in the NRMA Kennedy Awards 2020

The SMH's reporter, Zoe Samios, has been nominated for Young Journalist of the Year in this year's NRMA Kennedy Awards for Excellence in Journalism.

Rita Manessis’ Melbourne home vandalised over support for Palestine

Rita Manessis' Melbourne based home was targeted in what has been labelled as a 'disgusting' graffiti attack over her support for Palestine. According to 7News,...