It’s the holiday season! Time for this, time for that. Time to make space in our lives for others. Where do you find the rhythm of rest?
As I continue to research the chapter of Rest for the upcoming publication of my book, I have found three reports that are very different.
My smart watch- the scientist-the Lord.
My smart watch on Thursday, 11/21/2024, from 8:32 pm- 3:20 am, says I slept for 6 hours and 48 minutes; eighty nine percent efficiency, with an actual sleep time of 6 hours 3 minutes. Too few hours for the doctor recommended 7-8 hours. I was wake 43 minutes (10%), REM sleep 17 minutes (18%), Light sleep 4 hours 15 minutes (64%), and deep sleep 33 minutes (8%).
According to sleep expert Matthew Walker, What Happens to Your Body and Brain if You Don’t Get Sleep, so much can go wrong. Wow, in four minutes and 49 seconds, my whole world of wakefullness has a new perspective. Should I adjust my rhythm to science or find peace in the unique pattern of my body?
I’ve noticed, Thursdays seem to be my catch-up on sleep day. Once a month a Thursday rolls around and I must take a nap well before my normal midnight hour.
What is your rhythm of rest?
I also noticed in my studying this week, that Jesus also had a rhythm of rest. Just after receiving notice that his friend John was beheaded, he withdrew to a remote place to be alone. But the crowds came and he healed them. Everyone ate and was satisfied.
It wasn’t about the body healing or resting. He was more concerned about caring for the people and feeding them. More than five thousand received compassion, healing, and food, according to Matthew 14: 12-23. Then he dismissed the crowd, after sending the disciples away. Then he went up on the mountain to be alone and pray. Well into the night he was alone.
In my day to day rhythm of wakefullness, sleep, and rest, may I remember not all the ills that may happen with lack of sleep, but I have peace in the compassionate care of others.
May this be a holiday season of compassion for us all. Then, when the crowds are gone, we rest.
Always grateful,
Walking In Your Gifts 