Those in Germany require taking a siesta to brave the heat, in the summer of 2023, the people of Germany will experience extreme heat waves, making everyday life unbearable for many. In response to persistently high temperatures, experts call for a traditional practice: the siesta.
A common practice in many warm countries, the siesta involves people resting and relaxing during the hottest hours of the day, usually from early to late afternoon. During this period, they avoid physical activity and stay in the shade or indoors to avoid the intensity of the sun.
With the recent increase in average summer temperatures in Germany, there is growing concern about the health risks of prolonged heat exposure. Heat-related health problems such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heat stress increase as the thermometer rises. The elderly, children and vulnerable groups are especially at risk.
To limit the negative effects of heat waves, local authorities and health organizations encourage taking a siesta to allow the body to recover from the heat and prevent dehydration. In addition, it is recommended to drink plenty of water and wear light, breathable clothing, especially during outdoor activities.
Despite the fact that siesta is not a daily practice in German culture, it cannot be ignored as an urgent remedy against the increasingly intense heat waves. In addition to rest breaks and adjustments to daily routines, urban planners and architects are being urged to create more green spaces and shaded areas so that people can more easily cool off on hot summer days.
The call for siesta time as a means of combating the heat illustrates the growing awareness of climate change and its consequences. The importance of preventive measures at both the individual and policy level is emphasized in the pursuit of a more resilient society in the face of a changing climate.