http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20160506-the-japanese-art-of-not-sleeping

I came across this article by Dr Brigitte Steger the other day when I was looking for some information on Japanese studies. I always noticed that the work culture in Japan, specifically the big cities, were excessive and exhausting. I’ve also heard (by unchecked sources) that Japan has been a country dependent on amphetamines since WWII, and suffers from the consequential long term side effects of paranoia and psychosis.

It’s not a rare sight to see people in Japan falling asleep on public transportation, passing out in the street after a round of drinking , or hear of stories of people falling asleep in meetings.

The article explains that the idea of inemuri is different from sleeping or napping in that it is a state of unconscious presence. Similar to day dreaming, but probably while in a less conscious state of awareness. Dr Brigitte explains that inemuri is an acceptable thing because it’s an expression of hitting a wall of uncontrollable exhaustion while in the presence of others. It is interesting that the act is acceptable as long as it doesn’t interrupt or disturb the social harmony of the situation. I believe it’s also a reflection of the social tribe or bond that exists within Japan. In a tribe of coworkers where you share most of your life and personal space with, perhaps inemuri is easier to accept.

I once had a conversation with a Japanese school teacher, and he said the three luxuries (gluttons) of life were, food, sex, and sleep. If sleep where considered to be a luxury, then it would explain the consequential state of people falling asleep from constant sleep deprivation. I also find it interesting that in some cases people will say that their hobby is sleeping. Ya… Sleeping. Sleeping in Japan is such a commodity that even school aged children consider it an enjoyable activity as opposed to a necessity.