About the Book

In a culture that glorifies productivity and constant motion, an author who struggles with sleep provides a deeper understanding of how rest connects to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Book Synopsis

Many of us overlook the power of sleep--until we struggle to get enough of it. Our culture glorifies productivity and achievement, yet millions suffer from chronic exhaustion, stress, and anxiety. If we could sleep better, could we live better?

Ken Wytsma, an author and educator who has grappled with every sleep issue imaginable, believes we can. In this fresh and empowering guide, he considers the significance of sleep--not just as a health necessity but also as a spiritual and creative foundation for well-being. Weaving together personal storytelling, historical vignettes, and spiritual insights on the hidden power of rest, Wytsma

- explores why sleep deprivation harms our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being;
- explains how rest fuels happiness, creativity, resilience, and a life of service to others;
- shows that reclaiming the gift of sleep is an invitation to the good life; and
- offers practical wisdom for overcoming sleep struggles.

This is a compassionate, encouraging, and fascinating guide for anyone looking to escape the cycle of exhaustion and rediscover the joy of a well-rested life.

From the Back Cover

Reclaiming Sleep in a World That Never Rests

We often overlook the power of sleep--until we struggle to get enough of it. Our culture glorifies productivity and achievement, yet millions suffer from chronic exhaustion, stress, and anxiety. If we could sleep better, could we live better?

Ken Wytsma, an educator who has grappled with chronic illness, insomnia, and years of fragmented rest, believes we can. In this compassionate and empowering guide, he reframes sleep--not just as a health necessity but as a foundation for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

A natural storyteller, Wytsma blends research with personal reflection to explore why modern life makes rest so elusive and what happens in our bodies and minds when we finally surrender to sleep. He examines the surprising connection between rest and creativity, happiness, and resilience. And for those ready to take action, he offers concrete strategies for repatterning the thoughts and habits that keep us awake, including ten practical approaches for reclaiming the sleep you long for.

If exhaustion has become your unwelcome companion, this book will help you rediscover the joy of a well-rested life.

"The Sleep You're Longing For is a field guide for getting your life back."
--Stephan Bauman, former CEO of World Relief; author of Seeking Refuge

"I give this book my highest recommendation."
--Kerry Kuehl, MD, DrPH, MS, director of Human Performance Laboratory, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU)

"Wytsma invites us to slow down and rediscover the sacred art of rest."
--Sandy Coughlin, creator of ReluctantEntertainer.com

"A road map to rest that reminds us we sleep well so we can serve well."
--Roy Goble, author of the Junkyard Wisdom books; cofounder of PathLight International

"Wytsma shows us that sleep is not just a thing we must do but a gateway to human flourishing."
--Marc Wagner, MD, MPH

About the Author

Ken Wytsma is an award-winning author and teacher with a love for exploring how history, philosophy, and culture shape the way we live today. He has spent nearly two decades speaking and teaching at universities and conferences around the world. He is also an entrepreneur who has started organizations, guided nonprofits, and launched creative projects that connect people across disciplines and communities. When he's not writing or teaching, Ken can be found in Oregon's Willamette Valley enjoying the outdoors, good conversation, and time with his wife and four daughters.