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Sacred Rest


Synopsis


Staying busy is easy. Staying well rested-now there's a challenge.

How can you keep your energy, happiness, creativity, and relationships fresh and thriving in the midst of never-ending family demands, career pressures, and the stress of everyday life? In SACRED REST, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a board-certified internal medicine doctor, reveals why rest can no longer remain optional.

Dr. Dalton-Smith shares seven types of rest she has found lacking in the lives of those she encounters in her clinical practice and research-physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, sensory, social, creative-and why a deficiency in any one of these types of rest can have unfavorable effects on your health, happiness, relationships, creativity, and productivity. SACRED REST combines the science of rest, the spirituality of rest, the gifts of rest, and the resulting fruit of rest. It shows rest as something sacred, valuable, and worthy of our respect.

By combining scientific research with personal stories, spiritual insight, and practical next steps, SACRED REST gives the weary permission to embrace rest, set boundaries, and seek sanctuary without any guilt, shame, or fear.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Call to Rest

* Introduction to the concept of sacred rest as an essential component of spiritual and physical well-being.
* Examines the societal pressures and cultural norms that hinder rest.
* Example: A busy professional who constantly feels overwhelmed and neglects personal time for self-care.

Chapter 2: The Sabbath—A Model for Sacred Rest

* Explores the biblical concept of the Sabbath as a day of rest and renewal.
* Discusses the importance of regularly setting aside time for rest and leisure.
* Example: A stay-at-home mom who implements a weekly Sabbath practice to connect with her faith and recharge.

Chapter 3: The Cycle of Sacred Rest

* Outlines the four phases of the sacred rest cycle: surrender, letting go, receiving, and blessing.
* Explains how each phase contributes to personal transformation and a deeper connection with the divine.
* Example: A yoga instructor who uses the sacred rest cycle to deepen her practice and foster spiritual growth.

Chapter 4: Surrender—Entering the Rest of God

* Emphasizes the importance of releasing control and trusting in God's providence.
* Explores the benefits of practicing surrender in daily life.
* Example: A grieving widow who finds comfort and healing through surrendering to the divine plan.

Chapter 5: Letting Go—Emptying out the Self

* Discusses the need to let go of distractions, worries, and negative thoughts.
* Provides practical tips for creating space for rest and renewal.
* Example: A nature lover who retreats to the wilderness to shed the burdens of daily life.

Chapter 6: Receiving—Opening Our Hearts to God's Gifts

* Explores the receptivity necessary for true rest.
* Explains how to practice gratitude and openness to the divine.
* Example: A spiritual seeker who finds deep contentment through prayer and meditation.

Chapter 7: Blessing—Embracing the Abundant Life

* Defines blessing as the act of extending love, kindness, and gratitude to others.
* Examines how blessing can lead to personal fulfillment and a deeper sense of connection.
* Example: A volunteer who experiences the joy and blessings of serving the community.