Labor Day has always been about honoring the dedication and hard work that fuel our country. It’s the unofficial send-off to summer, a weekend full of barbecues, family gatherings, and one last dip in the pool before fall routines set in.
Rest during the holiday can bring a sense of peace, offering mental calmness and emotional well-being before the busy season begins.
But here’s the thing—most of us use it as one more excuse to pack the schedule. We clean the garage, squeeze in errands, and tackle that long-neglected to-do list. We may even wear our busyness like a badge of honor.
At Freedom Mattress, we believe Labor Day should be a celebration of the work you’ve done—and a chance to recharge so you can do your best work ahead. In other words: rest is not the opposite of productivity—it’s the fuel for it.
Taking time to rest helps you achieve a sustainable work-life balance, making it possible to maintain productivity and well-being in the long run.
This year, we’re inviting you to flip the script. Instead of squeezing more in, take the opportunity to make rest intentional, restorative, and yes—productive.
Intentional rest is essential for a healthy lifestyle, supporting your overall well-being and preventing burnout.
Rest is a purposeful form of activity that complements hard work and helps you perform at your best.
Introduction: Why Labor Day Is the Perfect Time to Invest in Rest
Labor Day is more than just a long weekend—it’s a well-deserved break that reminds us of the value of rest in our busy lives. As we pause to celebrate our hard work, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on our mental health and overall well-being. Quality rest is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health, and the foundation of better sleep starts with the right mattress. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or somewhere in between, your sleep style plays a big role in determining which mattress will help you wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day. With so many mattresses on the market, finding the best mattress for your needs can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the options, understand what features matter most, and make an informed choice—so you can turn your Labor Day break into the first step toward healthier, more restorative sleep.
The Science of Rest: Why It’s the Ultimate Productivity Tool
It’s easy to think of productivity as “output”—how much you can get done in a day. But peak performance is directly tied to recovery, and that starts with quality rest.
1. Sleep supercharges your brain.
Multiple studies, including research from Harvard Medical School, show that sleep enhances learning, problem-solving, and memory retention. Well-rested people make better decisions and react faster—skills that apply whether you’re managing a project at work or figuring out how to keep your kids entertained on a rainy day. Adequate rest improves your ability to reason, remember, and solve problems, which are essential for optimal mental performance.
2. Your body repairs itself while you sleep.
During deep sleep stages, your muscles recover, your tissues regenerate, and growth hormone levels rise—crucial for athletes, active individuals, and anyone who wants to feel strong and energized. Even your immune system gets a boost, which means fewer sick days.
3. Rest reduces stress and burnout.
Chronic stress floods your body with cortisol, which can disrupt sleep patterns and create a vicious cycle. Rest—and specifically deep, quality sleep—helps lower cortisol and improves your resilience to daily challenges.
Bottom line: Better rest means better performance—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Taking time to rest is not just a luxury; it is necessary if you want to truly succeed in both your work and personal life. While the benefits of rest may seem obvious, they are often underestimated or ignored.
Breaking the "Hustle Only" Myth
We live in a society that glorifies the hustle. “Sleep when you’re dead” has become a rallying cry for entrepreneurs, students, and anyone chasing big goals. But the reality? Lack of rest isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a fast track to burnout.
Some of the world’s top athletes and CEOs protect their rest like a business asset. LeBron James reportedly aims for 8–10 hours of sleep per night. Jeff Bezos has said he prioritizes 8 hours of rest because it helps him make high-quality decisions.
Here’s the difference:
- Passive rest: zoning out on the couch, scrolling through your phone, half-watching a TV show.
- Intentional rest: restorative activities and high-quality sleep that replenish energy and focus.
When you treat rest as part of your performance plan—not a guilty indulgence—you start to see the results in every area of life.
Slowing your pace intentionally is essential for improving well-being and productivity, as it allows for better reflection, strategic thinking, and sustainable habits.
How to Make Rest Truly Productive This Labor Day
You don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle to see big benefits from rest. A few intentional choices can transform your Labor Day weekend into a true reset.
How your time is spent during the holiday matters—investing time in rest is just as valuable as time spent working.
1. Optimize Your Sleep Environment
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, not an afterthought.
Invest in the right mattress: A supportive mattress can relieve pressure points, keep your spine aligned, and improve sleep quality. When choosing a bed, consider the right size and type to fit your sleep needs and room space. Investing in a good mattress is essential for long-term sleep quality and overall well-being. Mattresses come in various firmness levels to suit individual preferences and comfort needs. Soft mattresses provide a plush, cushioned feel and are often preferred by side sleepers or lighter individuals, while firmer options offer more support for back or stomach sleepers and those with higher body weight. The construction of a mattress includes multiple layers, with the top layer playing a key role in comfort and support. Mattress thickness can affect the overall feel and appearance, with thicker mattresses often appearing more luxurious, though thickness alone doesn’t guarantee better comfort. Look for mattresses made from durable materials to ensure long-lasting support. Features like reinforced edges or pocketed coils provide better stability and enhance the mattress’s ability to isolate motion, reducing disturbances—especially important for couples or anyone sharing a bed. Some mattresses, such as those with memory foam, allow you to sink in slowly, and certain memory foam mattresses have a slow response, which can make it harder to move or shift positions easily. Mattress design also affects movement and how easily you can shift positions during sleep. Good edge support is important for sitting on the bed comfortably. Your sleep position—whether side, back, or stomach—requires different types of support for proper alignment. Body weight also influences how a mattress performs, affecting sink, support, and comfort. Make sure to choose a mattress size that offers enough space for comfortable sleep. Some mattresses are flippable, with different firmness levels on one side and the other, providing versatility for changing needs. At Freedom Mattress, we carry Helix, Birch by Helix, and Leesa—brands we trust for their comfort and durability.
- Control temperature and lighting: The ideal sleep temperature is around 65°F, and blackout curtains can help your body produce melatonin naturally.
- Reduce noise disruptions: White noise machines or simple earplugs can make a big difference.
2. Schedule Downtime Like an Appointment
We’re quick to block off meetings or appointments, but downtime? Not so much. This weekend, try blocking out a few hours as “non-negotiable rest.” Whether it’s an afternoon nap, reading in a hammock, or watching a movie guilt-free, give yourself permission to pause.
3. Engage in Restorative Activities
Rest doesn’t mean doing nothing—it means doing the things that recharge you.
- Light walks outdoors
- Meditation or deep breathing exercises
- Journaling
- Listening to calming music
- Gentle yoga or stretching
4. Listen to Your Body’s Natural Rhythms
Your body has a built-in clock, known as the circadian rhythm. When you align your sleep and wake times to this rhythm, you fall asleep faster and wake up more refreshed. Even on a holiday weekend, aim to keep your bedtime and wake-up time consistent.
5. Upgrade Your Sleep Gear (Labor Day Promotion!)
If your mattress is sagging, lumpy, or older than 8 years, it’s probably affecting your sleep quality more than you realize. This Labor Day is the perfect time to invest in a mattress that supports your health—and your productivity.
Freedom Mattress Labor Day Specials
- Discounts on Helix, Birch by Helix, and Leesa mattresses.
- Free in-store sleep assessments to help you find your perfect fit.
- Exclusive in-store promotions at our Ellisville location.
Visit us at 15817 Manchester Rd, Ellisville, MO 63011 to test our top picks in person.
Mattress Types and Materials: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Choosing the right mattress is essential for achieving restful, rejuvenating sleep. There are several types of mattresses, each offering unique benefits depending on your sleep position, body weight, and personal preferences. Memory foam mattresses are popular for their ability to contour to your body, providing excellent pressure relief and good motion isolation—ideal if you share your bed and want to minimize movement disturbances. However, memory foam can sometimes retain body heat, so if you tend to sleep hot, you may want to look for options with cooling technologies or breathable foam layers.
Mattresses with individually wrapped coils offer better stability and edge support, making them a great choice for side and back sleepers who need extra support to keep their spine aligned. These mattresses also allow for more airflow, helping to reduce heat retention and keep the sleeping surface cool throughout the night. Latex mattresses are another excellent option, known for their durability, breathability, and luxurious feel. They provide a responsive surface that’s both supportive and comfortable, making them suitable for a wide range of sleepers.
When selecting a mattress, consider your preferred firmness level—softer mattresses are often best for side sleepers who need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, while firmer mattresses provide the support back sleepers need to keep their spine aligned. Your body weight also affects how a mattress feels and performs, so it’s important to choose a mattress that offers the right balance of support and comfort for your unique needs. By understanding the different types of mattresses and materials available, you can find the perfect fit for a cool, comfortable, and restorative night’s sleep.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Mattress
Finding the best mattress for your needs means looking beyond just the type of mattress—it’s about understanding the key features that contribute to better sleep and overall wellness. One of the most important factors is firmness level, which determines the mattress’s ability to support your body and relieve pressure points. The right firmness level will keep your spine aligned, no matter your sleep position, and help you wake up feeling refreshed instead of achy.
Edge support is another essential feature, especially if you tend to sit on the edge of the bed or want to maximize your sleeping surface. A mattress with strong edge support provides better stability and prevents sagging, making it easier to get in and out of bed. Motion isolation is crucial for couples, as it minimizes the transfer of movement from one side of the bed to the other, ensuring uninterrupted sleep even if your partner shifts positions during the night.
Pay attention to the mattress’s construction, including the number and quality of foam layers, as well as the use of breathable materials that help regulate temperature and reduce heat retention. Cooling technologies and breathable surfaces can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the night, especially if you’re prone to overheating.
Setting boundaries around your rest—such as making sleep a non-negotiable part of your routine and investing in a mattress that supports your health—can have a profound impact on your productivity and well-being. By prioritizing features like firmness, edge support, motion isolation, and breathability, you’ll be well on your way to achieving better sleep, improved health, and a greater sense of wellness every day. Remember, a good mattress is an investment in your ability to rest, recharge, and succeed.
Overcoming Guilt and Shame: Giving Yourself Permission to Rest
For many of us, the idea of taking a break or sleeping in comes with a side of guilt. We worry that resting means we’re not doing enough, or that we’re falling behind. But here’s the truth: prioritizing rest is one of the most essential steps you can take for your mental health, productivity, and overall wellness.
It’s time to realize that rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When you allow yourself more rest, you’re not just giving your body a break; you’re giving your brain the chance to recharge, process, and focus. This is the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Setting boundaries around your time and energy is key. That might mean saying no to extra commitments, or carving out non-negotiable moments for sleep and relaxation. Remember, a good night’s sleep starts with a restful environment and the right mattress. The best mattresses offer a balance of support and comfort, with features like memory foam or latex top layers, individually wrapped coils for good motion isolation, and breathable materials to help regulate body heat and reduce heat retention. For side and back sleepers, choosing the right firmness level and edge support can make all the difference in relieving pressure and keeping your spine aligned.
If you’ve ever felt guilty about taking a nap or sleeping in, consider this: your body and mind need downtime to repair, rebuild, and maintain stability. Resting is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s about listening to your body’s needs and giving yourself permission to recharge—so you can show up as your best self in every area of life.
Incorporating rest into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by creating a schedule that includes time for breaks, relaxation, and better sleep. Whether it’s a short nap, a quiet moment with a book, or simply lying down on a supportive mattress that fits your sleep style, these moments of rest are investments in your health and productivity.
Don’t underestimate the impact of your sleep surface, either. A mattress with the right foam layers, firmness level, and edge support can transform your nights—and your days. The best mattress for you is one that supports your body, keeps you cool, and helps you wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.
So, the next time you feel the urge to push through fatigue, remember: taking a break is not only allowed, it’s essential. By giving yourself permission to rest, you’re setting the foundation for better sleep, improved mental health, and a more productive, fulfilling life. You deserve to feel your best—so make rest a priority, and let your body and mind thank you for it.
The Freedom Mattress Difference: Rest Without Restrictions
Shopping for a mattress shouldn’t be stressful. That’s why we’ve designed Freedom Mattress to put you in control.
- Hassle-less shopping: Browse and buy without high-pressure sales tactics.
- Freedom to shop your way: Even if no one’s in the store, you’re free to explore our selection at your own pace.
- Local and family-owned: We’re part of the Ellisville community, and our focus is on your comfort—not corporate quotas.
- Curated selection: We don’t overwhelm you with hundreds of options. Instead, we carry trusted brands that cover a variety of sleep needs, so you can find the one that truly fits you.
When you shop with us, you’re not just buying a mattress—you’re investing in better nights and better days.
Labor Day Exclusive: Invest in Rest, Reap the Rewards
Labor Day weekend is more than just a holiday—it’s a reminder of the balance between effort and recovery. This year, we’re offering special deals to help you get the rest you deserve:
- Special Labor Day pricing on our best-selling mattresses.
- Free delivery with qualifying purchases.
- Extended comfort guarantees, so you can rest easy knowing you made the right choice.
These offers are only available through Labor Day, so don’t wait—your most productive days are on the other side of your best rest.
Conclusion: Rest Is the Work Behind the Work
Rest isn’t wasted time—it’s an investment in the life you want to live. This Labor Day, honor your hard work not just by celebrating it, but by giving your body and mind the recovery they need.
Because here’s the truth: the people who rest well don’t accomplish less—they accomplish more.
So go ahead—make rest productive this Labor Day. Your future self will thank you.
Stop by Freedom Mattress at 15817 Manchester Rd, Ellisville, MO 63011 for your free sleep assessment and Labor Day savings.
Your best days start with your best nights—find yours at Freedom Mattress.