Rest is Good For Your Soul
- July 2, 2020
Rest is not a luxury
Rest is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It affects our wellbeing, productivity, and our ability to think. There is a reason surgeons, pilots, and truck drivers have mandated periods of rest, lives are at stake.
Research indicates that when we deprive our bodies of sleep; it raises blood pressure, increases inflammation and intensifies the likelihood of catching a cold or flu. Physical fatigue can also lead to depression and feelings of hopelessness. Additionally, lack of sleep not only increases hunger, but causes one to crave foods high in calories, fats, sugar, and carbohydrates. This kind of diet then contributes to anxiety, fear and poor mental health, which in turn has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive problems, and other degenerative diseases.
Our physical, mental, and spiritual health are closely intertwined and as long as the soul resides in a physical body, it will be impacted by its condition. Jesus knew the benefits of rest and it is no wonder he said to His disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31).
Take Time During the Holidays
Currently, many of us pack as much into our days as is humanly possible. Even when we are supposed to take a break from work or have a holiday, we fall into the habit of using the time to see as many people as possible, get revision done or make a head start on next term’s work. We even feel guilty when we don’t get to do all the things we planned for the break, telling ourselves we are not as hardworking as others. However, it’s worth taking the opportunity during the holidays just to spend time resting.
What does the Bible Say?
The Bible says that God himself rested after He finished his creation work (Genesis 2:2-3). God also designed us to be people who function best when our lives are a combination of work and rest. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus says: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. It is therefore imperative that we rest our bodies and our souls. When we do this, we shelter in the arms of God and let our guard down, knowing that God will provide for all the details of our lives.
Refocus on What’s Most Important
Because rest restores and balances us, it helps us refocus on what’s most important – our faith in God, caring for our families, and fostering relationships with those God has entrusted to us. Rest, therefore, is at the heart of our relationship with God. Let us take the upcoming holidays to rest completely, allowing our body and soul to be restored. May this break be a balm for the body and soul, so we are able to return refreshed and invigorated for the start of a new term.
Have a restful break.
- Featured
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.