in order to continue our work AND to help others.
5) Resting for brief moments will increase our mental clarity, concentration and psychological coping skills – all of which are vital in the important decision-making process required during times of emergency.
6) Rest lowers stress by decreasing the abnormal levels of our stress hormone cortisol, which is elevated when we experience an emergency. As a result, we can remain more alert, more productive and even more positive as we undertake the recovery process.
7) Intermittent moments of rest throughout the day will help us sleep at night. Sleep is
sometimes hard to come by when we
are experiencing an emergency. But, a deep
night’s sleep is essential to repair and rebuild the body’s connective tissue as well as the brain’s neural pathways.
Yes, it may seem counter-productive – even counter-intuitive – to rest in the midst of an important task, personal emergency or natural disaster. But, we need energy, strength and mental clarity before we can help others. We need to fill our vessel before we can share with others. If we deplete ourselves, we have nothing to give.
As our friends in the airline industry always say, “Put your own oxygen mask on first.” Then help others put on theirs.
Accordingly, in the
midst of fighting
your battles -- if
and when it’s
possible -- take five minutes every few hours to close your eyes and rest, practice deep-breathing or meditate on the task at hand. Doing so will go a long way in restoring the equilibrium, balance and focus necessary for the proper functioning of the body and mind. For when these things are restored, we can give more generously to others, which in turn, is good for the soul.
“To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn . . .
There is a Season, Turn, Turn, Turn.”
So, this Spring as you plant new seeds, rebuild, repair, and restore the world around you, don’t forget to renew yourself. Remember to pause. Remember to stop and reflect. Remember to rest and relax. Because, doing less is often the key to accomplishing more.