The Power of Pause: Embracing Rest for Balance
I have to admit that I love the idea of rest, but I’m not very good at it. While I’ve mastered the art of taking a few moments to check in, breathe, and navigate difficult times, the concept of taking a few days or even a couple of weeks of lighter load makes my brain freak out.
It’s ironic because rest is what I most desperately want on the inside, yet I find it hard to execute. Somewhere along the line, we’ve confused rest with laziness. The constant need to do something stems from a fear of being left behind or missing out. My extensive athletic upbringing and societal messages have reinforced this notion. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
The Importance of Trust
Rest isn’t just about the physical act of taking a break. It’s about resting our entire system—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. When we allow ourselves the freedom and space from our usual hectic schedules, we invite a new way of being. Transitioning from going 100% to 25% is a difficult experience for me. My body’s pattern screams, “Wait, something’s wrong! I should be working! I have bills to pay! I don’t have time to sit around.” But it’s not just about sitting around. It’s about allowing ourselves to rest emotionally and mentally as well.
One crucial aspect of rest we often overlook is trust. Trusting that solo-preneurs or small business owners will be financially OK. Trusting that athletes won’t lose their skills, muscle mass, or gain weight from taking time off. Trusting that motivation won’t disappear and clients won’t forget about us. These are some of the stories I’ve personally experienced and heard from others. Does any of this ring true for you?
When I allow myself an extended period of rest or simply slow down, I feel more inspired and creative. Physical aches and pains fade away, and I reconnect with my body. Mental space opens up, leading to new ideas and motivation. Connecting with activities that bring joy allows a sense of freedom in my spirit, heightening my trust that the universe has my back.
Embracing Nature’s Rhythm
For some, slowing down seems counterproductive. Yet, taking two steps back can lead to a significant leap forward. Nature doesn’t hurry or rush. Seasons have a natural ebb and flow, and everything works in its rhythm. Why do we think we’re different? Constant go mode isn’t healthy or productive.
Nature doesn’t hurry or rush. We have seasons that have a natural ebb and flow and everything works in its own rhythm. Why is it that we think we’re different? Constant go mode isn’t healthy or actually productive.
I encourage you to take a little time to slow down. I understand that sometimes it seems like the furthest possibility, but it just might be the exact thing that you need. Maybe that looks like a couple hours to yourself. Maybe a whole day. If you can manage a weekend or even a week, I encourage you to explore. What you might find is that the rest allows you rejuvenation and nourishment that your soul needs to help catapult you into a beautiful dynamic phase where you have abundant energy and your flow with life. Rather than pushing hard, forcing, and expending extra energy that could be used elsewhere.
As I write this message to you, the breeze is lightly tickling the trees and the leaves are squealing with delight. The crows in my backyard are having a very animated conversation with each other. The temperature is hot, but just under sultry. The mosquitoes are pesky, not too bad. I can hear distant chatter from the birds and the hum of the air conditioning unit. I would say it’s a lazy Wednesday afternoon but really it’s just a quiet, beautiful time surrounded by life itself. I can feel my body settling into my egg chair that I lovingly call my throne. I’m filled with gratitude for the slowness in the moment.
Exploring the Types of Rest
I’m getting to know a familiar friend named Rest. She’s intimidating, but I’m learning to love her. Taking these few minutes to slow down and observe heightens my senses. Flowers seem more vibrant, and my nervous system happily downshifts. My mood lightens, sinking into a beautiful sense of peace.
The concept of resting more has been on my mind for some time, yet I’ve resisted. Wanting something but then resisting it is a funny dance we do. As I become more comfortable dancing with rest, I understand her value, importance, and lessons.
Did you know there are at least seven types of rest? Physical, mental, emotional, sensory, creative, social, and spiritual. Neglecting these leads to burnout, frustration, prolonged stress, and exhaustion. Physical rest includes good sleep, small walks, naps, or self-care activities like massages. Emotional rest involves authentic self-expression, avoiding people-pleasing, spending time alone, journaling, and connecting with nature.
Mental rest includes mindfulness, taking small breaks throughout the day, and larger mental breaks when possible. Social rest involves stepping away from large groups and engaging in fulfilling social interactions. Creative rest incorporates play and appreciation of beauty, pursuing hobbies, and engaging in inspiring activities like cooking or painting. Sensory rest means taking breaks from screens and devices, enjoying quiet time, or listening to calming music. Spiritual rest involves reflection, meditation, prayer, and being with a spiritual community.
My invitation and hope for you are to find a little more space for yourself. Examine your life and see where you might need rest. Whether it’s an additional 10 minutes at the end of your day to reflect and express gratitude, or a week off work, know that it’s for your highest and best self.
Each of you has an amazing gift to share with the world. When we are rested from all aspects of our being, we can express our authenticity to the fullest. Always remember that you are worthy of rest!