Sleep is defined as a condition of body and mind such as that which typically recurs for several hours every night, in which the nervous system is relatively inactive, the eyes closed, the postural muscles relax, and consciousness is practically suspended. Rest, however, is described as an instance or period of relaxing or ceasing to engage in strenuous or stressful activity.
We go to bed each night hoping to get some shut-eye sleep, but do we get rest? More than a third of American adults are not getting enough sleep regularly, according to a new study in the #Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. #The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society found that sleeping less than seven hours per day is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and frequent mental distress, like depression.
There is a clear difference between sleep and rest. Although we need sleep, we can’t assume that because we got some shut-eye we also got some rest. #Rhett Power with Power Coaching and Consulting, advocates that we should get rest. Specifically, each week he recommends taking a day of rest, or a sabbath as it is called in most major religions. He gives twelve scientific reasons a regular rest time every week, promotes health and overall well-being. Some that I think are noteworthy are:
Time out reduces stress
Gives you a chance to move from your sedentary position
Reduces inflammation and the risk of heart disease
Boosts your immune system
Restores mental energy
Increases creativity
Improves short-term memory
In my previous post, I mentioned that Elijah the prophet was so weary that he considered dying and asked God to take his life. Instead, God provided an angel to feed him so that he could sleep and take a Sabbath from his worries and fears. When Elijah awoke, God gave him supernatural strength that allowed him to make a forty days and nights journey.
It’s important to do all you can from a human perspective but make sure that you don’t exclude your heavenly Father who promises to give you a supernatural rest from all your worries and fears. You are loved! I dare you to try him! If you like this post, please give me a thumbs up, comment, and brighten someone else’s day by sharing it.
#Come to me, all who are weary and heavily burdened and I will give you rest… and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29 AMP
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