Let’s Talk About Rest: It’s Not Laziness, It’s Necessary
If you know me, you know how much I “preach” about getting in your workouts, being active, prepping healthy meals, journaling, and taking charge of your wellness. It might sound like I’m always encouraging you to go-go-go. And yes, being active is essential. Clean eating takes effort—planning, prepping, and showing up for yourself.
But let’s be real: there’s a very real danger in overdoing it. Overtraining, overextending, and running on empty are not badges of honor. They’re warning signs. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a requirement for a healthy lifestyle.
There’s a big difference between rest and laziness. Your body needs rest—especially seven to eight hours of quality sleep per night. And I get it… even when I have time to sleep, my body doesn’t always cooperate. Especially as we age, sleeping through the night can be a challenge.
Understanding the Science: Your Circadian Rhythm
Just like digestion, hormone cycles, and metabolism, sleep is managed by a biological rhythm—your circadian rhythm. This 24-hour internal clock regulates your sleep-wake cycle, body temperature, hormone production, digestion, and brain function. It’s largely set by light—natural daylight is key.
Disrupting your circadian rhythm can affect your sleep quality and trigger long-term health issues, including hormonal imbalances, weight gain, poor immune function, and mood instability.
Why Sleep Matters: Benefits You Can’t Ignore
Here are just a few reasons why quality sleep is non-negotiable, according to trusted sources like SCLHealth and the American Heart Association:
- Boosts Immune System
Sleep truly is the best medicine—helping you recover and even prevent illness. - Supports Weight Management
Lack of sleep increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (the “I’m full” hormone), which leads to overeating and cravings. - Protects Your Heart
Inadequate sleep spikes cortisol (stress hormone), increasing heart strain and blood pressure. - Improves Mood
You’re happier, calmer, and more resilient with better rest. - Enhances Productivity and Focus
Rested minds are sharper, more creative, and more efficient. - Elevates Athletic Performance
No matter your sport—lifting, yoga, running—your performance thrives with proper recovery.
Overcoming the Obstacle: Real Life
The biggest challenge? Life itself. Kids, jobs, spouses, schedules, pets, cooking, cleaning—the list goes on. But the better you rest, the better you show up for everything else.
Here are proven sleep tips from the Mayo Clinic and Healthline:
Tips for Better Sleep
- Get more daylight exposure. Open windows or go outside—natural light regulates your body clock.
- Reduce screen time in the evening. Blue light suppresses melatonin. Use blue light-blocking glasses, apps, or power off 2 hours before bed.
- Avoid caffeine late in the day.
- Skip long or irregular naps. Power naps (20–30 minutes) are fine!
- Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule.
- Consider a melatonin supplement. A low dose (1–2 mg) may help.
- Optimize your sleep space. Control temperature, reduce noise/light, and create a peaceful layout.
- Avoid heavy meals late at night.
- Establish a bedtime wind-down routine. Hot baths, calming music, light reading, or deep breathing work wonders.
- Invest in good bedding! A comfortable mattress and pillows matter.
- If sleep still eludes you, talk to your doctor. Rule out disorders like sleep apnea.
- And of course—exercise regularly. You knew I’d say it! Just not right before bed. Gentle evening yoga is an exception.
Bottom Line: Sleep Is Self-Care
Taking time to rest isn’t lazy. It’s one of the smartest, healthiest, and most productive things you can do for your mind, body, and spirit.
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
—Psalm 4:8
Let’s commit to better sleep, deeper rest, and the energy to live our purpose well. You deserve it!
FTM Wellness 