Magical Rest

When the rhythm of the heart becomes hectic,
Time takes on the strain until it breaks;
Then all the unattended stress falls in
On the mind like an endless, increasing weight...

You have traveled too fast over false ground;
Now your soul has come to take you back. 

Take refuge in your senses, open up
To all the small miracles you rushed through...

(read the full poem here) 

--John O'Donohue

For all those who don't know him, I have just had the good fortune of discovering John O'Donohue.  An Irishman through and through, a masterful poet, a former priest, and a huge fan of meditation, his work is incredible. He seems to understand the bone-tired, the need for rejuvenation, and the complete exhaustion that sometimes befalls us all.  He holds a special place in his heart for beautiful landscapes, and writes so many wonderful words of beauty and light in his work Anam Cara, Gaelic for Soul Friend.  

For a yogic sleep teacher who has been struggling with insomnia lately and who touts the utmost importance of quality sleep for her clients, it can be difficult to admit exhausted defeat. But sometimes you just have to. And you must also lean into the fact that if you don't take the time to rest now, it will catch up with you and be far worse down the road.

When I read John's words, I feel like he's inside my head, or my bones. They're filled with so much truth. So much honesty. As one who is exhausted, it is time to take a bit of rest. I hope you treat yourself to some much need rest too and open yourself to all those small miracles you may have previously let fly by.

Listen to an interview with John O'Donohue at onbeing here for more of his soulful, beautiful, and inspiring words.