Sleep is a Gift from God

Are you feeling tired, restless and anxious? Are you feeling spread thin and running on empty? Let’s talk about sleep. Sleep is highly underrated. When we were younger we never want to go to bed on time, and now that we’re older it’s all we can do to stay up past our bed time. Why is that? Some of us have trouble falling asleep as our minds are over stimulated throughout the day. Others have trouble turning off worries or fears they’re experiencing for the night, while many of us have health concerns that add an extra layer of complexity to our sleep patterns.

“If you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” Proverbs 3:24

Helpful Tips for Sleep

Here are some helpful tips, that I’ve tried myself, to help you prepare for a restful night’s sleep. They are simple and practical so whether you’re winding down after a long day or trying to quiet a busy mind, these can make a real difference.

Turn off Your Tech

Turning off your Tech an hour before bedtime can be very beneficial. This includes televisions, phones, E book readers, etc. Screens give off what’s known as blue light, which can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and potentially impacting sleep quality. According to calm.com “Research shows that too much screen time before bed can interfere with your natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to wind down and fall asleep. Whether you’re texting, watching videos, or even reading e Books at night, the light from electronic devices sends alert signals to your brain when it should be slowing down.” They continue to say that “limiting electronics before bed isn’t just good for sleep - it can also help reduce stress and support better mental health.”

If you must have some screen time before hitting the hay, use a blue light filter on your devices, dim the brightness and keep a soft light on. Using screens in total darkness can strain the eyes because of the contrast between a bright screen and a pitch-black room. I’m stuck on this point because I feel it’s the most impactful of the bunch. By taking this tech free hour before bed it allows your body to naturally prepare for sleep by producing melatonin, leading to a more restful sleep.

Try Mindfulness Practices

Try mindfulness practices such as “embracing soothing audio like peaceful nature sounds, instead of visual activities. You might consider listening to music or your favourite podcast, trying a breathing exercise, or relaxing with a gentle meditation session.”

Avoid Large Meals Before Bedtime

My husband always has trouble sleeping when we’ve eaten dinner later than usual. Large meals can cause indigestion, making sleeping hard. Have a light, healthy snack if you’re hungry late at night. Also, avoid drinking a lot of liquids before bed unless you want to get up in the middle of the night to visit the bathroom.

Journaling

Clear your mind by writing in a journal. Take pen to paper and write down your thoughts, worries or to-do lists. This action can free your mind from dwelling on these things and can make it easier to fall asleep.

Reading Before Bed

Reading is a great way to slow down the mind by sparking the imagination, taking the focus off your daily struggles and chores. If you’ve read the passage about tech, you’ll know that I recommend you read a paperback or hard cover book in hand—no E Books!

What does the Bible say about Sleep?

Sleep isn’t just about recharging our bodies, it’s something the Bible speaks about, too! From peaceful rest to God’s faithful care through the night, Scripture gives us a comforting view of sleep as a gift from a loving Father. Let’s take a look at what it says.

Sleep as a Time of Peace and Safety

For me, I sleep best when I feel safe and at peace the most. Psalm 4:8 echoes this sentiment nicely “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Isn’t it beautiful how God’s presence brings peace and security, enabling restful sleep?

 Sleep as a Gift and Provision

The Bible also sees sleep as a gift and provision, an act of Faith. Psalm 3:5 says “I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me.” This verse shows how God’s protection extends through the night, allowing for restful sleep.

Turn to God for Sleep

1 Peter 5:7 says: “casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” This verse encourages believers to cast their worries on God, promoting peace and potentially better sleep.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, sleep is one of the kindest things we can give ourselves. It doesn’t have to be complicated: a quiet hour without screens, a good book, a little prayer, maybe even a warm cup of tea. Think of it as a gentle reset, a chance to let your mind and body recharge. So tonight, tuck away the to-do list, quiet the buzzing thoughts, and give yourself permission to rest. Sweet sleep is waiting.

Inspired Source: https://www.calm.com/blog/screen-time-before-bed

Inspired Source: https://www.calm.com/blog/insomnia-self-care