The Importance of Siesta

Life is an adventure, a journey, taking many twists and turns along the way, filled with goodness and suffering. It’s good to have plans and goals, but even more important to remain open to what might arise along the way. Everyday life can seem mundane, especially when we rush through it with our endless task lists. I find this even more true as a mother of three little ones. When laundry piles up and diaper changes are never ending all I can think of is getting things done. I start to loose sight of the opportunities to enjoy the small things in life. It’s difficult to be open to those special moments throughout the day when I am rushed and tired, so taking time to rest has become paramount to embracing the simple, beautiful, and the silly. Everyday as a family we take a siesta in the late afternoon. I send the children to separate areas in our home. There are no distractions, save for a book or perhaps some very quiet play. I might read a little then I close my eyes and enjoy the silence. Yes, there are interruptions and sometimes our siesta is cut short, but this quiet time re-energizes everyone, especially me. With rest I am better at letting go of tasks and plans and more open to enjoying the shenanigans of my three little children.