Innovation promises 'performance improvement' for employees
Sleeping at work will never be the same again thanks to a new vertical pod coming to Japanese workplaces later this year.
The pod, dubbed as the “giraffenap,” is a new innovation from Japan that allows users to sleep while standing, much like the animal it's named after.
The tech appears to be highly targeted for workplaces, particularly for employees who may be lacking sleep because they juggle multiple tasks at work and at home.
Giraffenap for workplace naps
Its developer, Koyoju Plywood Corporation, said on its website that the giraffenap aims to contribute to health promotion and "performance improvement" of employees.
"In just 20 minutes, you will be refreshed and help improve your performance, such as recovering from fatigue, reducing stress, restoring memory and concentration, and improving creativity," Koyoju said in a media release.
The pod enables its users to sleep while remaining upright. To make this possible, the pod is the size of a small public phone box complete with four platforms inside to support the head, buttocks, shins, and soles.
"By fixing these four points, it is possible to maintain a relaxed standing and sleeping posture no matter how weak you are," Koyoju said.
The developer promises that the pod will take its users to the second stage of sleep state, where they can feel the effect of the nap but still quickly return to work without feeling dizzy.
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Napping at work has benefits
Taking a nap at work has long been proven to be beneficial for employees and organisations. In 2016, research revealed that lack of sleep costs the US about $411 billion in lost productivity, Fortune reported.
In 2020, researchers from MIT Sloan revealed that employees who were able to take 30-minute naps at work were 2.3% more productive.
"These findings serve as a proof of concept that sleep can affect important economic outcomes relatively quickly," the researchers said.
Giraffenaps aren't expected in workplaces until late December 2023 to early 2024, according to Koyoju.
But while waiting, employees can try taking these measures from Sleep Advisor Magazine on taking office naps:
- Find a cool shaded area
- Bring a pillow from home
- Nap at or under the desk
- Sleep in the break room
- Nap in the car