For many international students, adjusting to life in Spain means getting used to a new routine—including the famous siesta. At first, it might seem strange that shops close mid-afternoon or that your classmates disappear after lunch. But what if this local habit was actually one of the smartest productivity hacks out there?

Spoiler: science says it might be.

Your brain loves a reset

Research shows that taking a short nap—especially in the early afternoon—can boost memory, increase alertness, and sharpen your ability to concentrate. Even just 20 to 30 minutes can improve brain function for the rest of the day.

Why this matters for students: If you’ve got lectures, assignments, or studying ahead, a siesta can recharge your brain and help you stay focused longer.

Siestas fit the natural energy cycle

Our bodies follow something called a circadian rhythm—a natural internal clock that controls when we feel alert and when we get sleepy. Most people experience a dip in energy between 2pm and 4pm. Instead of fighting it with coffee, a quick nap works with your body’s rhythm.

Result: Less mental fog, better mood, and fewer crashes during late-night study sessions.

Short naps, big gains

A long nap might leave you groggy, but a power nap? That’s where the magic is.

According to NASA (yes, NASA), a 26-minute nap improved pilot performance by 34% and alertness by 54%. You might not be flying a spaceship—but you’ll definitely feel the difference during that late-afternoon lecture.

Siesta culture = Balanced living

Living in Segovia, you’ll notice the city slows down after lunch. It’s not laziness—it’s balance. Locals prioritize rest, conversation, and well-being. This cultural rhythm reminds students that productivity doesn’t always mean “go, go, go.”

And guess what? Slowing down for a bit can make you more productive overall.

Rest reduces Burnout

University life can be stressful—especially when you’re studying in a new country. Over time, lack of rest and constant pressure to perform can lead to burnout. Siestas offer a simple way to break that cycle.

Taking time to rest isn’t lazy. It’s smart.

You don´t have to sleep

Siestas aren’t just about napping. Lying down, reading, or even daydreaming for 30 minutes can reduce stress and help your brain unwind. It’s about giving yourself permission to pause.

Make it work for you

Not every student has time for a full nap—but integrating the siesta mindset can still help:

• Schedule your most demanding tasks after your reset
  
• Eat a proper lunch and avoid rushing through the day
  
• Take a break from screens and let your brain rest
  

Let´s sum it up

The Spanish siesta isn’t just tradition—it’s backed by science. In a world where overwork is often glorified, the siesta is a reminder that rest and success can go hand in hand. So the next time you feel guilty for taking a nap… remember, you’re just studying like a local.

👉 Want to experience the Segovia lifestyle while you study? Our student apartments are made for comfort, rest, and balance. Explore them now.