The Germans must adopt them habits of the inhabitants of the warmer regions of southern Europeintroducing the midday siesta into their lives, as they are faced with the high temperatures of the prolonged heatwave, recommends the association of public health officials BVOeGD.

“Wake up early, work productively in the morning and do one siesta at noon”, says the head of the Union, Johannes Nissen, in an interview with the RND network.

Although Germany does not experience the heatwave that affects southern Europe, the prevailing temperatures are around 35°C, while record 38.8°C recorded in Bavaria.

“In intense heat people are not as active as under other conditions. In addition, poor sleep due to the lack of cooling at night leads to concentration problems,” explains Johannes Nissen.

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach said the siesta is not a bad idea, “but employers and employees will have to negotiate this together.”

The employers’ association BDA is open to the idea of ​​a siesta and believes flexible hours will allow workers to take longer lunch breaks if it suits both sides.

Johannes Nissen also calls for “more fans and lighter clothing, even if the dress codeof the office does not allow it”.

“One cold foot bath under the desk would also be a good option to stay cool while working from home,” he says.