Surrender is a Form of Rest

How does our body ask for rest?

Well, our bodies are constantly communicating with us. 

They have a very sophisticated and time sensitive communication system.

The good news is that when we take an interest in understanding, it is easy to translate.

And learning how to speak the language of our body is crucial for maintaining good health. 

Our body does an excellent job sending signals when it needs rest, recovery and rejuvenation. 

Whether it's physical exhaustion, irritability, or lack of focus, these are signs that indicate it is time to slow down and recharge.

And our call to action is to simply pay attention and respond accordingly.

Have you ever just felt… off?

But you weren’t sure why.

 It might be because your body IS off.

Your body is off its circadian rhythm.

Being misaligned with our natural cycles will lead to feeling abnormal.

Noticing that you feel off is your body's way of telling you it's time to pause, get curious and investigate.

Here are some common signs of sleep deprivation:

1. Persistent Fatigue - Feeling overwhelmingly tired throughout the day, even after a full night's sleep. 

2. Irritability and Mood Swings - Experiencing increased irritability or sudden mood changes. 

3. Difficulty Concentrating - Struggling to focus or maintain attention on tasks. 

4. Increased Cravings for Sugar and Caffeine -  Craving unhealthy foods or excessive caffeine for an energy boost. 

5. Physical Symptoms (e.g., Headaches, Muscle Tension) - Experiencing headaches or muscle tension, especially around the neck and shoulders. 

6. Poor Memory -  Difficulty remembering recent events or information. 

7. Reduced Immune Function -  Frequent illnesses or slower recovery from colds and other infections. 

8. Increased Stress Levels - Feeling overwhelmed or easily stressed out by everyday situations. 

9. Daytime Sleepiness - Feeling drowsy or falling asleep during the day. 

10. Mental Health Challenges - Feeling anxious, depressive or chronic pessimism about life.

Here are some tips and benefits to improving sleep quality:

• Prioritize sleep hygiene practices - Creating a restful sleep environment and limiting screen time before bed. Benefit - To strengthen your immune system.

• Implement a bedtime routine -  Include calming activities, such as reading or listening to soothing music. Benefit - Quality sleep supports memory consolidation.

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule - Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.  Benefit -  Regulate your internal clock and improve cognitive function.

• Opt for balanced meals - Foods rich in protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. Benefit - Stabilize blood sugar levels and sustain energy.

• Incorporate gentle stretching - Relaxation exercises in your routine before bed.  Benefit - Alleviate physical tension and improve overall comfort.

• Practice stillness - Explore mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to manage stress and stabilize your mood. Benefit - Improve emotional resilience.

• Incorporate a short nap - Aim for no more than 15-20 minutes, before 3pm.  Benefit - Boost energy without disrupting your nighttime sleep.

• Get some morning sunlight - Early exercise boosts your energy levels and resets your body’s internal clock. Benefit - Early exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep patterns.

• Keep a journal - Review your energy levels and mood throughout the day. Benefit - Identify patterns that signal the need for rest.

Whether it be stillness, rest or sleep, our body is designed for restoration.  

Our natural cycles - daily, monthly and annually, all call for periods of non-activity.  

Denying our natural need for rest is rejecting the Divinity of our design.  

Relinquishing control and surrender is also a form of rest.

Let go and let God.

Let Infinite Intelligence do it’s thing.

Be still and know.

Rest.

Please share, what signs of needing rest do you notice in your mind and body?

Welcome to the month of October and our 7th Pillar of Wellness - Sleep

This marks the beginning of our journey through the Physical realm, elevating our consciousness, spirituality, and physical well-being by the sacred care of our bodies.

Join us for a new Pillar of Wellness every month.

The Divine in me sees and honors the Divine in you.