Singapore is renowned for its economic success, high standard of living, and its reputation as a city that never sleeps—quite literally. However, this relentless pace of life comes with a hefty price tag: chronic sleep deprivation. Compared to countries like Norway, which boasts a similar per capita income, Singaporeans work significantly longer hours and sleep far less. The effects of this relentless grind go beyond fatigue, making rest an essential form of self-care that we can no longer afford to overlook.
The Sleep Problem in Singapore
According to a research done by the LKY School of Public Policy, Singaporeans are among the most sleep-deprived people in the world, clocking in fewer hours of rest compared to global averages. According to a report by SingHealth, the average Singaporean gets just 6.5 hours of sleep on weekdays, falling short of the recommended 7–9 hours for adults. Long working hours, digital distractions, and high-stress levels are some of the key culprits behind this epidemic.
Contrast this with Norway, where the emphasis on work-life balance ensures not just shorter working hours but also a culture that values rest and recovery. Norwegians are known to work fewer hours per week yet remain one of the most productive economies globally. Their secret? They’ve recognized the importance of rest in maintaining both mental and physical health.
The Cost of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation isn't just about feeling tired—it has serious implications for both your physical and mental health. Chronic lack of rest increases the risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It also impairs cognitive function, leading to poor decision-making, decreased productivity, and even mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
For Singaporeans, this is especially concerning given the high-pressure environment many of us navigate daily. Whether you’re managing a demanding job, balancing family commitments, or striving to achieve personal goals, the lack of rest can become a silent saboteur of your well-being.
Rest as Self-Care: The Solution to Burnout
In a society that values productivity above all else, the idea of taking a break can feel counterintuitive. Yet, rest is one of the most effective forms of self-care, especially for those of us juggling hectic lifestyles. Rest isn’t just about sleeping; it’s about creating moments of calm that allow your mind and body to recover and recharge.
This is where iREST comes in. We believe that rest should be accessible and intentional, not an afterthought. Our products, like the EyeWell ™ Relaxing Massager, are designed to help you carve out moments of calm throughout your day, no matter how packed your schedule is. Using our ZenWave™ Pulse technology, the EyeWell ™ massager provides targeted relaxation to your eyes, which often bear the brunt of screen-heavy lifestyles. It’s a simple yet powerful way to incorporate rest into your routine, whether you’re at work, commuting, or unwinding at home.
The Power of Small Changes
Rest doesn’t have to mean taking a week-long vacation (although that wouldn’t hurt!). Sometimes, small, intentional changes can make all the difference. Here are a few ways Singaporeans can prioritize rest:
- Create a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your body’s internal clock.
- Unplug Before Bed: Limit screen time an hour before sleeping to avoid disrupting your sleep quality.
- Micro-Breaks During the Day: Use tools like the EyeWell ™ Relaxing Massager to relax your eyes and mind during lunch breaks or after meetings.
- Mindful Relaxation: Incorporate practices like meditation, light stretching, or simply deep breathing into your daily routine.
Rest Is a Right, Not a Luxury
It’s time for Singaporeans to shift their mindset about rest. Just as Norway has shown us that productivity and rest can coexist, we too can achieve success without sacrificing our well-being. By making rest an integral part of our daily lives, we not only enhance our mental and physical health but also become better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
At iREST, we’re committed to helping you rediscover the power of rest. Because when you rest better, you live better.
Let’s embrace rest—not as a sign of weakness, but as a powerful act of self-care. Your body and mind will thank you for it.