Forget 8 Hours! New Research Reveals Sleep Needs Vary by Country

For years, we’ve all heard the same advice: “Get 8 hours of sleep each night.” But what if that rule doesn’t fit everyone? A new global study has found something surprising — the amount of sleep you need might depend on where you live. Yes, your location, culture, and daily life can change your sleep needs.

This discovery has challenged the long-believed 8-hour sleep myth and opened up new ways to understand sleep habits around the world.

Sleep Habits Change From Country to Country

In this large study, scientists looked at people from over 60 countries. They found big differences in sleep times. For example, people in Japan and South Korea get the least sleep, while those in the Netherlands and Finland sleep the most.

What causes this? It’s not just personal habits. Weather, working hours, daylight time, and even cultural norms all play a role. Some countries even encourage short afternoon naps, while others expect long working days and late nights.

Too Much or Too Little Sleep Can Harm Health

The study also warned that both sleeping too little and sleeping too much can be risky. Lack of sleep may lead to problems like anxiety, memory loss, weight gain, and heart disease. But sleeping too much can also cause low energy, headaches, and other issues.

So, how do you find the right balance?

Listen to Your Body — Not Just the Clock

Experts now say we should focus more on how we feel after waking up. If you feel fresh and active with 6 or 7 hours of sleep, that might be enough. If you still feel tired after 8 hours, maybe your sleep quality isn’t good.

Everyone is different, and your sleep needs can change with age, stress, work, and even the seasons.

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FAQs

Q1: Is 8 hours of sleep really necessary?
A1: Not for everyone. Some people need more, some less. It depends on your body and lifestyle.

Q2: How does my location affect sleep?
A2: Factors like climate, work culture, and sunlight can impact how much sleep you need.

Q3: What happens if I sleep too much or too little?
A3: Both can lead to health problems like stress, heart issues, and poor focus.

Q4: How do I know how much sleep I need?
A4: Notice how you feel after waking up. If you’re tired, your sleep may need improvement.