This past weekend, I was less active with work and personal responsibilities than I had planned on being.  Some expected workplace tasks resolved themselves, so I simply ended up having more free time than usual.  I chose to use the time to do things that I enjoy, with people I enjoy being around.  After a relaxed weekend, I feel refreshed and more energetic than I normally do on a Monday.  This experience has caused me to reflect on the positive impact rest can have on us.

In a Psychology Today article Jennifer Hamady (2015) states “a lack of sleep and rest can not only dull and mute some of our more positive traits and tendencies, but handicap them entirely.”  I agree with her sentiment.  I have seen in my own life that accumulated sleep deprivation and down time can result in a shorter fuse and sharper tongue.  This is not the way I want to be, nor do I give myself license to be this way, but a greater effort is required for emotional mastery.

While most adults will not get as much rest as they desire, or is recommended, do you feel that you get enough time to refresh in a given week or month?

In our culture, is rest seen as a luxury or a necessity? Why?

Hamady, J. July 6, 2015. The Importance of Rest. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/finding-your-voice/201507/the-importance-rest