Last month, UK-basedStylist magazine published an articleabout the rest gap.
Research sayswomen tend to report more sleep trouble in general.
This all creates a tough cycle where women arent getting theseven to nine hours ofsleep they need.
The rest gap speaks to just the ways in which women disproportionately are impacted in society.
There are a lot of contributing factors to the rest gap.
I think as women, weve been primed to be people-pleasers, Bailey continued.
When were children, were often celebrated for being nurturing and showing empathy and cooperation.
Conversely, its seen as a bad thing when women are assertive or focus on themselves.
This is especially true for moms.
For women who have children, parenthood adds an additional layer.
This is often on top of demanding jobs, family of origin needs, friendship needs and community obligations.
We live in a productivity-obsessed world.
I love the term hustle culture because I think that is what were all living in.
But thats a cycle that can go on and on until burnout.
Work plays a role, too.
In office prefs, women are often working doubly hard to prove themselves.
This heightened pressure at work can lead to mental and physical stress, as well as anxiety.
The expectations havent been loosened to meet the reality of 40-hour work weeks.
Instead, women are expected to do the same tasks that were expected decades ago.
To cope, it can be helpful to take breaks during the day and set boundaries.
Im going to check in with myself.
Theres no one right way to rest, either.
it’s possible for you to listen to your bodys cues and practice whatever relaxation technique you see fit.
Allowing yourself to rest and de-stress during the day can also carry over into the night.
Walking and mindfulness meditationare known to helppeople sleep better so its a win-win all around.
This is where boundaries can come in.
So, if you feel too drained to babysit your nephew, say no to that request.
