By Lilly (professional napper, certified temple observer)
Humans often look over their shoulders when they rest.
Check their phone.
Check the time.
Check if anyone’s watching.
But in Thai temples? Stillness is part of the space.
I’ve seen monks doze in the shade between chanting hours.
Elders resting against the chedi walls.
Children curled up on woven mats beside folded orange robes.
No one rushes them. No one whispers “You shouldn’t.”
Because in Thai culture, rest is not weakness. It’s rhythm. It’s recognition of being part of the day — not racing ahead of it.
And so, temples offer not just space for prayer,
but space for pause. For a breath that doesn’t lead anywhere.
I nap there too. Often.
So next time you’re walking past a temple wall and feel drowsy, don’t fight it. Just sit.
Close your eyes.
Let the floor be your clock.
It always knows when it’s time to rise again.