This rest period is designed to allow for the body to re-build cells and tissues, restore the chemical and hormonal balance, and otherwise rebuild the organs and systems of the body. It is a restorative state that is necessary for the healthy survival of the whole.
Not only is the body able to rejuvenate during this rest period, but also the soul. The hours our body is under the control of the subconscious mind allow for the open communication between our soul and the spirit. This is one more reason for going to sleep in a peaceful, loving state.
Most experts agree that adults, in general, need eight hours of sleep per night. Resting is a different matter. You may sleep ten hours a night and wake up as tired as when you went to sleep. You slept but you didn't rest.
When evaluating your rest, write down the numbers of hours you sleep each day and night for one week. Rate how well you rested on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing poorly, and 5 representing very well. A perfect score of 5 each day would result on a total score of 35. Generally a score of 28 to 35 is very good. A score in the 20 to 27 range is mediocre and could use some improvement. A score of 13 to 19 is the result when there is a need for definite improvement. And a score of 12 and below shows a drastic need for improvement.
To control the restless sleep problem, make conscious choices.
When you go to bed, exercise your freedom of choice over your thoughts and refuse to allow negativity to creep into your consciousness. Always finish your day with positive thoughts. Avoid watching the news on TV or reading bad news in the newspaper or a depressing book. If you must rehash the day's events, find some favorable or positive aspects of your day to think about.
Be sure your evening prayer, if you say one, contains thanks for your many blessings. The main point to remember here is that your body must rest and sleep in order to rejuvenate.
