Meditate Awake

Biomedical and social research has repeatedly found that men sleep less than women. Scientists suggest various reasons for this — from differences in work, social expectations, and physiological makeup. But why is it important to know about this? Because getting enough sleep is essential for good health and productivity. Sociologist Robert Meadows suggests that women may make more time for sleep and carve out moments in their day to nap, or preserve evening time for early nights. Whereas men “understand sleep as an unfortunate necessity”, because it takes up time that they’d rather be using for something else. Meadows also notes that behaviors involved in preserving sleep might go against men’s desire to prove their masculinity and strength — for example, getting an early night or taking a nap are sometimes seen as childish or weak. In reality, not making time for sleep decreases productivity, mental resilience and physical strength.