Thoughts for reflection

October 2024

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Finding Rest in a Restless World

 

Feel like you need more hours in the day? I hear you. Today's world is fast paced and non-stop. Rest can feel like a luxury or even an impossibility. We’re constantly encouraged to stay productive, to keep going, and to do more. Perhaps even expected to. But real rest isn’t wasted time—it’s essential self-care that helps us reconnect with ourselves and recharge.

 

Many people struggle to rest because it feels uncomfortable. Ever hear your self saying 'I must, I should, I need to just do one more thing?' When we finally stop, the thoughts we’ve been avoiding tend to bubble up. But that discomfort is a signal, to slow down, to give ourselves a chance to process and breathe. True rest lets us meet our needs and connect with what’s happening inside, so we feel more whole and present in our lives.

 

Rest is not just about relaxation—it’s a signal to our body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers our heart rate, reduces stress, and helps us recover. When we’re constantly “on,” our bodies stay in a state of high alert, leading to burnout and anxiety. Rest tells our body it’s safe to pause, heal, and come back to center.

 

And here’s the great part: rest looks different for everyone! It doesn’t have to mean sitting still or napping—although it can if that’s what you need. Rest might be a quiet walk in nature, reading a good book, or even taking a break to drink tea without rushing (one of my favourite!). It’s anything that fills you up and brings a sense of relief, a moment where you can breathe and feel at ease. Feel the air reach to the depths of your lungs. 

 

Easier said than done right? So how do we make rest a part of our lives? Start with small, intentional choices. Try carving out five minutes to sit quietly in the morning, or turn your phone off for a half-hour before bed. Schedule these moments of rest, just as you would any other important activity, and try to let go of guilt. Rest isn’t selfish; it’s a way of caring for yourself. When you take time to rest, you’re actually giving your best self to those around you because you’re more present and compassionate.

 

Remember, you don’t have to earn rest by working yourself to exhaustion. Rest is as essential as food and water. You are enough, just as you are, and your worth isn’t tied to how much you accomplish.

 

So my final words (which I often need to tell myself)....slow down, listen to what your mind and body need, and let rest be a regular part of your life. You deserve it!