I just read—or attempted to read—a variety of medical journals about the importance of sleep. The language was a little too deep for me. But here’s the simple summary for readers like me: sleep is our friend. We need it. Our brains need it. And not just long nights of sleep—brief naps during the day help, too.
I read about cultures that routinely hit pause in the middle of the day. They step away. They relax. They breathe deeply. They laugh. And they nap. All before going back to work and finishing their day.
Our schedules don’t always match theirs. Our rituals and tendencies are different.
But however we live—whatever our jobs, whatever our routines—let’s agree on this: we need more rest. We need better sleep.
So let’s make it our plan. Schedule time for rest—a good night of sleep, occasional naps, and even moments of calm throughout the day. Even when we’re awake and busy, let’s choose to relax mentally. Let’s refuse to let worry and uncertainty keep us trapped in the neurological fast lane.
Let’s slow down—not just to sleep, but to live better. Rest isn’t wasted time; it’s where healing begins. Culture might push us to keep going, but wisdom tells us to pause.
In a world that runs, let’s dare to rest.
Sleep well. Live slow. You’re worth it.
