A siesta is a short afternoon nap, traditionally taken in the early afternoon when the day is hottest. The word comes from Spanish-speaking countries where people developed this custom to avoid working during the most intense heat of the day.

In places like Spain, Mexico, and many Latin American countries, shops and businesses sometimes close for a few hours in the afternoon so people can go home, eat lunch with their families, and rest before returning to work in the cooler evening. The siesta is a practical response to hot climates and a way to recharge your energy for the rest of the day.

You might take a siesta on a lazy summer afternoon, or your cat might enjoy a siesta in a sunny spot on the floor. The word has spread beyond Spanish-speaking countries because many people have discovered that a short afternoon rest, even just 20 or 30 minutes, can help you feel more alert and focused. Some scientists even study how siestas affect learning and memory, and have found that these power naps can help your brain work better.