Hey, party animals! Are you all rested up after the hustle and bustle of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations? I hope so because today we’re talking about something often overlooked but crucial: rest as a top priority.
We live in a fast-paced world, constantly hustling and grinding, but what if true success comes from pausing and embracing rest?
Rest is not just a luxury; it’s an essential part of God’s design for our renewal. Let’s look at the science behind rest, its biblical importance, and practical ways to incorporate it into our daily lives.
The Science of Rest: A Gift for Your Body and Brain
You might think of rest as simply taking a break, but it’s much more than that. Rest renews our physical and mental health profoundly!
Physical Benefits of Rest
When we sleep, our brains keep working behind the scenes. During this time:
- Memory Processing: Sleep puts all of our day’s experiences in little containers your brain, improving memory and recall.
- Brain Detoxification: Your brain uses cerebral spinal fluid to clear toxins like beta-amyloid, which can contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Studies suggest this process is boosted by up to 60% during sleep.
- Synaptic Strengthening: Sleep strengthens the connections between neurons, helping your brain function at its best. In order to be working, it has to be firing on all cylinders!
Did you know that long-term good rest habits improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and help prevent chronic disease…who doesn’t want that?
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Sleep and active rest improve emotional regulation and cognitive function. We all know that when we miss our sleep we are irritable and unfocused, but when we get good rest our bodies:
- Reduces stress hormones like cortisol.
- Enhance our emotional resilience, making it easier to navigate challenges. Toddlers anyone?
- Boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. (The world needs more critical thinkers!)
Dr. Caroline Leaf, a neuropsychology expert, emphasizes the importance of active rest, such as mindfulness and prayer, to detox and renew our minds.
Quiet activities activate the parasympathetic nervous system, calming our bodies and breaking negative thought loops.
This is especially important for reducing anxiety and overwhelm.
Rest in the Bible: God’s Blueprint for Renewal
The Bible highlights rest as a key part of God’s design for our lives.
Rest in Creation
In Genesis 2:2-3, we see that God rested on the seventh day of creation:
“On the seventh day, God had finished His work of creation, so He rested from all His work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy.”
God’s rest wasn’t because He was tired, but to model the importance of rest for us. Rest is woven into the fabric of creation.
Jesus’ Invitation to Rest
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus offers us rest:
“Come to me, all who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Jesus provides not just physical rest but deep spiritual renewal. In Him, we find peace and freedom from life’s struggles.
The Sabbath Command
Exodus 20:8-10 reminds us:
“Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord, your God.”
Observing rest is an act of trust, acknowledging God’s control over our lives. While a full day of rest is ideal, even setting aside intentional moments can renew us.
Practical Steps to Prioritize Rest
How can we make rest a priority this year? Here are a few practical tips:
Physical Rest
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night.
- Nap Without Guilt: Listen to your body and recharge when needed.
- Avoid Oversleeping: Sleeping over 9 hours can be as harmful as too little sleep.
Mental Rest
- Unplug from Screens: Step away from social media and constant stimulation.
- Practice Silence: Spend time journaling, praying, or simply enjoying quiet moments.
- Take Nature Walks: Leave your phone behind and soak in God’s creation.
Spiritual Rest
- Daily Time with God: Set aside moments for prayer, Bible reading, and reflection.
- Be Still: In the quiet, listen for God’s voice and let Him renew your spirit.
Active Rest
Start practicing habits like walking, stretching, or creative hobbies. These refresh your mind and body without overexerting you.
Aligning Ourselves with God’s Rhythm
Rest impacts every area of life—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. When we prioritize rest, we align ourselves with God’s rhythm and remind ourselves that He is in control. As Psalm 23:1-3 beautifully illustrates:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows. He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength.”
Let’s make rest a goal this year, trusting God to equip us with peace and strength for all He’s called us to do.
Instead of focusing solely on work and productivity goals, let’s prioritize sleep, quiet moments, and intentional time with Him. Doesn’t that sound better then rush, rush, rush, and do, do, do?
This is a plan of action I can get behind in this New Year!
So, what steps will you take to rest more intentionally this year? Reflect on your life and identify areas where you can incorporate God’s gift of rest. When you do, you’ll find the clarity, energy, and renewal to thrive in every area of your life.
I would love to hear your thoughts! Reach out and let me know what plans you are making to incorporate more rest for yourself!
