For most, not getting much sleep would affect one’s ability to concentrate and function normally. It may even leave them in a bad mood. But this isn’t the case for everyone. For a small number of people (given the name ‘short sleepers’) the reality is that they can function normally for a less than ‘recommended’ amount of sleep for their age group.
Short sleepers are able to operate normally, with around 5 hours (or less) sleep per night. It’s said that their sleep is ‘high quality’ and unbroken. This results in them being able to wake up in the morning feeling fully refreshed for just a few hours shut eye.
Short sleeping is something that is natural. It isn’t forced by the sleeper and isn’t an attempt to avoid sleep. This sleeping habit will usually begin as a child or young adult, and then continue throughout their life. Most short sleepers will be unaware something is wrong, although often family members will be concerned about their loved ones. Some may suggest a short sleeper tries to get extra sleep even if through hypnotics. This may cause more trouble, as there is forced sleep that the person doesn’t really need.
Short sleeping shouldn’t be confused with not getting enough sleep at night. If someone sleeps for only 3 hours at night, but takes naps during the day, then the total hours tally should be taken. This figure is a daily sleep total, and if this comes to the average daily sleep averages, then the person probably isn’t getting enough Z’s at night.
However, experts do warn that it’s important to know the difference between a true short sleeper and those who are forcing themselves to not get their 7 or 8 hours per night, despite actually needing it., It’s believed that short sleepers are sleep deprived, yet they just don’t feel the symptoms of this.
Finding short sleepers is rare, so having this almost super power like sleeping condition is unlikely. But what if you could function perfectly on just 4 hours sleep? What would you do with your extra hours? In some cases, short sleepers will gain around 15 hours a week where they’re awake, feeling fully refreshed!
