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Rest

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Samuel Smith
5

REST

Rest is defined as "A pause for relaxation" (Wordweb). There are two types of rest that the body needs for optimum health. These are daily rest and periodic rest. We obtain our daily rest through sleep. Periodic rest is obtained when we arrange for a leave from work and take a vacation to an area where we can relax from all the pressures and stress of work life. Many people find it difficult to obtain the time for a periodic rest. However, this challenge is resolved when one comes to understand and keep the Seventh-day Sabbath. God provided mankind with the gift of the Sabbath to refresh him from the stress and pressures of work life. With the popular 24/7 slogan that has been adopted by various organisations, many are those who are deprived from periodic rest which is vital for optimum health.

Besides periodic rest, the body also needs a daily sleep rest. Many of us seldom obtain adequate sleep within the week. It is important to note that persistent cheating on our sleep produces serious physical and emotional problems such as leg cramps, incoherent speech, inability to focus the eyes, emotional despair, and irrational behavior. Sleeplessness is responsible for a lot of the automobile accidents in various parts of the world. Many walk about today with a vital rest need. It is important to note that quality rest brings restoration, and provides sufficient time for the body to restore that which has been used.

Rest need however differs from person to person. For instance, babies need an average of 20 hours sleep per day, 6 year olds need an average of 10 hours of sleep per day, 12 year olds require 9 hours of sleep while adults require 7-8 hours of sleep. There are several things that prevent us from obtaining good quality sleep. To improve sleep quality we must observe the following:

A) we must rest in a properly ventilated and quiet bedroom, free of bright light and noise;

B) we must end day peacefully by trying to avoid exciting TV programmes and arguments;

C) we must obtain regular exercise within the day;

D) we must avoid late meals as an overdose digestive system prevents peaceful sleep. The final meal should be light and taken 3-4 hours before going to bed;

E) a warm, not hot bath, may help relaxation before going to bed;

F) we must avoid alcohol, coffee, tea and other drugs which interfere with normal sleep pattern.

Even us many today engage in numerous activities that deprive them of daily and periodic rest; it is my prayer that you consider a NEWSTART in rest.