Get Enough Sleep

As physical and finite beings, we need rest. Our physical bodies are only able to function properly when we are fully rested. We need approximately 8-10 hours of sleep a day to care for our bodies. Failing to get adequate hours of slumber leads to fatigue and exhaustion. And when we are exhausted, the quality of our work and other areas of our lives are negatively affected. 

Sleep is a spiritual discipline as our bodies and souls are deeply connected in many ways. When our bodies suffer, we also suffer spiritually. If our bodies lack rest, we will find it difficult to pray, engage in spiritual exercises, and focus on God. 

Sleep is also an act of surrender. We cannot force ourselves to sleep. We can only create the necessary environment that would help us fall asleep. It is a sign of trust. It is a declaration that we are not God who never sleeps.

Tonight, sleep as much as you can. Our goal is to stay in bed until, at last, we can say that we have adequately rested. 

If this is not possible for you given external factors or situations, strive to get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep at least 3 times this week.

Tips for building a healthy sleeping habit:

1. Go to bed at the same time every night. Pick a schedule and stick to it. 

2. Refrain from activities that make your mind active when it’s time to go to bed.

3. Put away your phone or other electronic devices 30 minutes before your scheduled sleep time.

4. Avoid intake of stimulants like caffeine, spicy food, sweets, etc. late in the afternoon and in the evenings.

5. Spend time preparing for sleep. Read a book, meditate on a psalm, listen to soft music, or sit up and gaze out your window. Go to bed when you start feeling drowsy. When your body is ready, you will eventually fall asleep.

6. If you wake up in the middle of the night but do not have to get up, stay in bed. Give yourself time to fall back to sleep again.