Eduard Estivill, sleep expert: "Siestas aren't a Latino invention; they're a biological necessity."

Dr. Eduard Estivill , pediatrician, neurophysiologist, and expert in sleep medicine , explains that sleep is not just another habit, but an essential mechanism for physical and mental recovery. As he details on his website , the brain continues working throughout the night to organize what it learned during the day. Therefore, he insists that the number of hours needed depends on age and that those lost cannot be recovered .

The specialist clarifies that young children need around 11 hours , adolescents around 9, while adults recommend sleeping between 7 and 8 hours. For those over 65, the ideal amount is around 6 hours. To demonstrate the importance of rest, remember that Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo sleep up to 11 hours , a strategy that helps them prevent injuries resulting from physical exhaustion.

Regarding insomnia , Estivill warns that there are more than 40 possible causes , ranging from diseases such as Alzheimer's or thyroid problems to external factors such as night shift work or stimulant use. Anxiety and self-imposed demands also play a role, leading to nighttime awakenings. In these cases, he recommends getting up, turning on a dim light , and reading a boring book until you fall asleep again.

Regarding the siesta , Estivill states that "it's not a Latin American invention, but a biological necessity." He explains that about eight hours after waking up, the natural urge to rest for a few minutes arises . For older adults, he recommends taking two short naps of 5 to 10 minutes . He also reminds us that sleeping with a partner can disrupt rest , so sometimes it's healthier to opt for separate beds or different rooms .