Our bodies require rest. God made them that way. I’m not quite sure why our bodies require rest as an essential part of living as I can certainly think of many other things to do for that 6-8 hours each night I’m sleeping. But we cannot function properly if we don’t rest.
I remember 15 years ago, when I was launching a business, I decided to test this theory. I needed to get an enormous amount of work done so I tested my body and stayed up for more than 30 hours straight. Before I knew it I was nauseous, could barely stand upright and finally collapsed on the bed. I am a strong-willed woman but my will could not keep me up any longer. My body won that fight.
As I look at couples all around me, and especially within my own marriage, I am reminded of the importance of downtime. Not only allowing our bodies to get some rest but allowing our minds to slow down and our stress levels to be brought back down to neutral. Our relationships need it to remain healthy. If you ever want to see a woman at her worst, just look for her when she’s stressed out. Not a good look at all.
Whether you believe in the Bible or not, one commandment I highly recommend: Honor the Sabbath. Each week, Keith and I work an unbelievable amount of hours. Our one saving grace is we know if we can simply make it to the end of the week, our 7th day will be that of rest.
Setting aside a day of rest becomes something to look forward to each week. It’s most certainly our favorite day. We take the time to go on a date. We don’t watch our caloric intake and aren’t concerned with exercising. The only thing we care about is spending time with each other and allowing our mind, body and soul a time of renewal.
When was the last time you gave yourself the day off? Make it a habit in your household weekly to set aside a day of rest. Who cares if the dishes wait one more day? It won’t kill you to tend to the laundry twenty-four hours later. Allow yourself a time of rest. Your marriage and family will thank you for it.
Until tomorrow…make it a great day!
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