polyphasic

Polyphasic sleep is a term used to describe sleep schedules that divide a 24-hour day into more than one sleep episode. In contrast to monophasic sleep, which centers around a single long nocturnal block, and biphasic sleep, which typically comprises two blocks, polyphasic patterns involve several sleep blocks of varying duration spread across the day and night.

Common patterns include Uberman, Dymaxion, and Everyman. Uberman consists of six to eight 20–30 minute naps spaced evenly across the day; Dymaxion uses four 30-minute naps in a 24-hour period; Everyman combines a core sleep of about 3–4 hours with one to three daytime naps.

Potential effects and considerations: Proponents claim reduced total sleep time with maintained functioning, but evidence is limited and individual responses vary. Many people experience initial fatigue, mood changes, impaired concentration, and difficulty maintaining schedules. Long-term health effects are not well established, and some experts warn of sleep debt and circadian disruption. It is advised to approach polyphasic sleep cautiously, and individuals with sleep disorders, pregnancy, shift work, or medical conditions should consult a clinician before attempting such schedules.

History and context: While the idea of multiple sleep periods appears in modern online communities, historical and cultural sleep patterns have included biphasic and siesta practices in various regions. Industrialization and artificial lighting promoted consolidated, monophasic sleep, but polyphasic patterns persist among some groups and researchers exploring human sleep flexibility.