Forgive the title, I’m feeling pretentious.
I guess it’s due to the fact that I am well rested and, therefore, creative. However, such was not the case last week. Due to work concerns, personal commitments, and awful traffic patterns, I was barely able to scrounge out a paltry 4 hours of sleep a night. And let me just say, there was a clear difference. Let me set the stage:
I am generally an early riser ( 4am to be exact), a schedule that I follow every day. That includes weekends, holidays, hangovers, etc. Also, I’m in reasonably good shape. Mostly because I use those early mornings for workouts and mental centering. I’m creative: currently working on completing a play script. Lastly, I’m intelligent. At least that’s what my mama tells me when she needs me to fix her computer.
So, last week I was none of those. I actually hated looking in the mirror. My shoulders slumped, my belly was distended, and my eyes were dim, almost as dim as my memory. I couldn’t recall any information beyond the single thought that I wanted to scream at everything: “ I’m tired!” Speaking of screaming, every day would end in with various creative ways to scream FUCK YOU to whatever driver was inconsiderate enough to drive on the same highway as me. Sadly, this was the most creative part of my day, as I did not do any work on my script.
Then I took a nap.
As I passed my bathroom mirror I immediately noticed the difference. I felt and looked like
myself again. I couldn’t help but wonder about people who live in perpetual lack of sleep. Family I beseech you, don’t do this to yourself. If a week can affect me so clearly, imagine what months or years is doing to your body, your mind, your entire sense of self, health, and well being. Of course there are studies to prove what I say, but do you really need a scientist to tell you you need consistent rest? No, you need to stop making excuses, stop trying to normalize or justify mistreating your body.
If you can’t sleep, you’re doing it wrong. Your body craves sleep as a natural need and
maintenance mechanism. Turn off the television an hour before bedtime. Use that time to read, or talk to someone you like, or pet your dog. Put your phone on do not disturb. Whatever problem arises will still be a problem in the morning regardless of your knowledge of it. Listen to a talk-down meditation if one is available.
What I’m saying is let your body know it’s time to slow down. It may not work as well as you want the first time you do it. You’ve taught your body what normal looks like (unhealthy). It has to learn a new normal. Be patient and wait for your body to trust you again.
Remember, we’re in this river together. You’re important and we need you. Take care of yourself.
