Rest Without Pressure

If you're listening to this,

It may be one of those nights when sleep feels far away.

Let's begin by letting go of the idea that something needs to change right now.

You don't need to fall asleep.

And you don't need to relax perfectly.

Simply allow yourself to rest here.

Feel the support beneath you.

The bed holding you.

The blankets surrounding you.

The quiet of the room.

And just noticing the breath as it is.

There's no need to deepen it or control it.

If thoughts arise,

Gently remind yourself this moment does not need fixing.

Just allow the thoughts to drift past as if they are clouds drifting across the sky.

Let them go.

There's nothing you need to do.

And there's nowhere else you need to be.

You might place a hand on the chest or the belly.

Wherever feels comforting.

And let that touch be a signal of care.

Even without sleep,

The body can rest.

And sometimes,

When pressure softens,

Sleep finds its own way in.

And for now,

Let rest be enough.