More than 65% of women don't get enough rest - here's why

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In a recent global women's leadership programme we have been discussing the difference between sleep and rest.

After all isn't sleep the same as rest?

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Sleep and rest are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Sleep researcher Ian M. Colrain says: "sleep can be thought as of a set of states of rapidly reversible unconsciousness," which thankfully makes sleep different to being anaesthetised or in a coma!

When sleep occurs the body undergoes important physiological processes such as restoration, detoxification cellular repair, and growth. Sleep is essential for good health and wellbeing, and a lack of sleep can have adverse effects on our physical and mental health. If you're struggling to sleep, check out this blog.‍

Rest on the other hand, refers to a state of relaxation or tranquillity in which the body and mind can recover from the stresses of daily life. Rest can take many forms, such as sitting quietly, taking a nap, meditating, or engaging in leisure activities. Rest is also important for good health and wellbeing, as it allows the body to recharge and prepare for the challenges ahead.

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Over the past 12 months, we have been asking senior female leaders around the world questions about their health and wellbeing. So far 1,200 women have responded.

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We ask specific questions about rest, rather than sleep (that's a different survey!) and the data shows us that only 10% of these women surveyed score green for rest. That suggests that without adequate rest, many women are simply running on empty.

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In our discussions, we find that many women don't find it easy or natural to articulate what rest looks like for them. Both sleep and rest are important for good health and wellbeing, but often the emphasis is on sleep hygiene rather than practices that support rest.

If you know you are craving deep rest, we specialise in unique retreats designed to give you the rest your mind, body and spirit needs. Open to all, our next retreat will be held in Cornwall in the UK in May, a time when Spring is at its most rejuvenating. Pause Retreats use the restorative power of nature to guide you back to yourself and a place of inner peace and tranquillity.

If you would like to discuss the Reflective Pause Retreat with one of the Pause team, click here and book a free, no obligation call today.

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Rest well!