World Sleep Day Speech by Jure Castro Iraguha
Good morning, afternoon and evening, everyone depending where you are. Today, as we mark World Sleep Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible importance of sleep and share a bit of my own journey with you.
My Personal Experience with Sleep
During my advanced studies, I often sacrificed sleep in an attempt to work harder, read more, and push myself further. I believed that staying up late was a sign of commitment, but I quickly learned the consequences. My body grew weaker, I fell sick frequently, and I found it increasingly difficult to concentrate in class. Some days, my mind was so foggy from sleepless nights that I couldn’t fully grasp what was being taught.
Through this difficult experience, I learned an important lesson: sleep is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Now, I prioritize rest, and the difference is life-changing. I feel healthier, more focused, and better equipped to face challenges. As the leader of Blessed to Bless Life Ministries, an organization dedicated to supporting refugee children and youth, I’ve realized that taking care of myself allows me to serve others more effectively.
Life is a gift, and while we must work hard, we must also rest well. Your mental and physical health should always be a priority.
The Bible’s Wisdom on Rest
The Bible reminds us that rest is not just a physical need but a spiritual one. Here are a few powerful scriptures:
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"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." – Matthew 11:28
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"In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety." – Psalm 4:8
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"It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep." – Psalm 127:2
These verses remind us that rest is an act of trust in God’s provision and a way to honor our well-being.
What Experts Say About Sleep
Many successful people recognize the value of sleep. Here are two quotes to consider:
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Arianna Huffington, co-founder of The Huffington Post, said, "Sleep is a performance enhancer. It makes you smarter, more attractive, more self-controlled, healthier, and even a better friend."
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LeBron James, one of the greatest athletes of all time, said, "Sleep is the most important thing when it comes to recovery. And it’s free!"
These words highlight that sleep is the foundation of success, whether in business, sports, or daily life.
Why Sleep Matters
Here are a few key benefits of sleep:
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Strengthens Immunity – A lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making us more prone to illness.
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Improves Mental Clarity – Sleep enhances focus, memory, and decision-making.
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Boosts Emotional Well-being – Rest helps regulate emotions and reduces stress.
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Increases Productivity – Well-rested individuals perform better at work, school, and daily tasks.
Shocking Sleep Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 3 adults does not get enough sleep.
- Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.
- Studies show that sleeping less than six hours per night can impair cognitive function as much as being legally drunk.
A Lesson from My Own Life
I recall a time when I was so exhausted from sleepless nights that I couldn’t focus during an important meeting. I was trying to do it all, yet my lack of rest made me less effective. That moment was a wake-up call. Since then, I have committed to getting at least 7–8 hours of sleep, and it has transformed my life. I feel more present, more productive, and more joyful.
Final Encouragement
As we celebrate World Sleep Day, I encourage you to prioritize rest. Whether you’re a student, a professional, a parent, or a caregiver, remember: you cannot pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself so that you can take care of others.
Thank you, and remember: Life is short, but it’s a gift. Work hard, but rest well. Your mental health matters.
For more about our work at Blessed to Bless Life Ministries, visit www.blessedtoblesslife.org. Let’s continue to make a difference—one well-rested step at a time.
Happy World Sleep Day!
