Reclaim Your Right to Rest in 5 Easy Steps

Picture this: every week, like clockwork, my iPhone buzzes with a notification. But instead of dreading it, I found myself pleasantly surprised a few weeks back. My screen time had plummeted to under 3 hours a day! How did I manage this feat? The answer might just surprise you—rest.

Let’s talk about a common woe shared among high-flyers: perpetual exhaustion. It’s the anthem of many high-achieving professionals. We toil away at work, and continue the grind at home, constantly serving others while neglecting our well-being. Sound all too familiar?

But what if I told you there’s a better way? The notion that we must prioritize everyone else’s needs above our own is outdated. It’s time for a paradigm shift. By prioritizing our rest, we’re not being selfish; we’re ensuring we have the energy reserves to give our best to others.

Now, here’s the kicker: convincing yourself that you deserve rest can be the toughest hurdle to overcome. It’s all about rewiring that mindset. Every choice we make shapes our reality, and if we constantly train our bodies to be fatigued, guess what? We’ll always feel exhausted.

But fear not! There’s light at the end of the tunnel. Reclaiming your right to rest starts with small, consistent steps. It’s about retraining your nervous system, nurturing your well-being, and being steadfast in your commitment to self-care.

So, the next time your phone pings with that dreaded screen time notification, remember: it’s not just about cutting down on scrolling—it’s about embracing the power of rest to rejuvenate both body and soul.

 

Here are some ideas to help you to reclaim your rest:

 

1. Acknowledge the Importance: Understand that rest is not a luxury but a necessity for a healthy mind, body, and soul. It’s not about being lazy; it’s about recharging your batteries.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that drain your energy unnecessarily. Boundaries are key to protecting your time for rest and rejuvenation.
3. Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is non-negotiable for overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your body to repair and recharge.
4. Embrace Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. These can help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
5. Nourish Your Body: Be kind to your body and do things that make you feel good. Eat healthy foods, drink enough water, stretch, and move in ways that boost your mood and energy levels.

 

We have to start training our nervous system to rest, otherwise we will stay in a chronic state of overwhelm and eventually burn out. I love to take walks in the woods, lay in the hammock, soak in a hot detox bath, and spend time relaxing with friends.

By prioritizing rest and incorporating these practices into your life, you can experience greater joy, improved health, and a deeper sense of well-being.

Remember, you deserve rest, and it’s okay to prioritize your own needs.

So, go ahead, reclaim your right to rest, and watch as your life transforms for the better!