February 28 is noted as National Sleeping Day, encouraging one to take time to rest. Sleep is an essential aspect to the health of most living things. Sleep is when we heal, both our minds and bodies. I find that in the global scope of the workforce today, it is harder than ever to set aside adequate time to rest and recuperate.

ID 88199635 © Juan Moyano | Dreamstime.com

I found some interesting statistics noted by the CDC regarding sleep in 2019 for U.S citizens. They state that one-third of U.S. citizens are sleep-deprived. According to the CDC, any amount of daily sleep less than seven hours is considered insufficient. Insufficient sleep is linked to higher rates of chronic illness such as depression, heart conditions and more.

On any given day we face challenges and obstacles on the path to rest. Sometimes those can come in the form of an email or call regarding your occupation, or a friend or family member in need of consultation, and sometimes we sacrifice just to complete a pressing task. No matter the circumstance, setting time aside for yourself is not negotiable, no matter what your current situation may be.

In light of the upcoming National Sleeping Day, I thought it would be best to remind you all that self-care, sleep and overall wellness are important. As fellow travelers and opportunists of taking in all the world has to offer, I feel sometimes we take for granted the time needed to regroup in order to properly be the travelers and adventurers we so wish to be.

Another quick reminder: May marks our Leisure Lifestyle Edition, a personal favorite of mine and a great source for relaxation-inspired destinations and, perhaps, maybe even a spot or two for a sleeping destination as well!

— Stephanie Makowski, account executive