We live in hurried times. We value going all out all the time to achieve audacious goals.
However, non-stop work backfires. The American Institute of Stress reports that job pressures are the biggest source of tension for Americans, costing an estimated $300 billion a year in absenteeism, turnover, diminished productivity, and medical, legal and insurance fees.
Although this stress epidemic is not new, the question of what to do about it has become more urgent than ever.
We need a reprieve from the constant pressure to achieve, produce and consume. In her new book, expert Marilyn Paul, Ph.D. urges all to seek "An Oasis in Time."
The solution for this chronic sense of pressure lies in the ancient tradition of the Sabbath. But it's not just your normal day off: The idea is that for one day, or maybe half a day or just an hour once a week, you set aside your doing-for-doing mind, your-it's-never-enough mind, and your crazy nonstop trying to-control-things mind. You enter a true oasis. You can start with an hour a week...and with practice, let go of the feeling that there is something else to be done.
"Years ago, I worked very hard, but ineffectively," says Dr. Paul. "I was very grateful to discover Sabbath history: a day of rest each week. It changed my life and I wanted to share how valuable it is with friends, family and leaders so that everyone could find a way to include it in their lives."
Design your oasis time when you've been moving quickly but haven't allowed yourself to stop...you haven't taken a break...you've been ignoring your need to rest. In the distance, you see an oasis, a pool surrounded by sturdy palm trees with ample fronds. It's lovely and green, a colorful sight for your sore eyes that have been scanning the desert for dangers and opportunities. The knowledge that you are on the way to respite and refreshment gives you a spark of energy. You draw closer to the oasis, and you already feel better as you anticipate the pleasures of the sustenance to come.
You stay there for an hour or so. You leave suffused with new energy. You get a break.
Source: Marilyn Paul: An Oasis in Time: How a Day of Rest Can Save Your Life