Respecting Rest

Rest is more important than ever in today’s society. With an abundance of information at our fingertips at all times, our brain needs time to be still. Apart from the constant stimulation from technology and social media, it’s also almost seen as honorable to be constantly busy. But here’s the thing– being busy doesn’t always mean being productive. 

By intentionally adding in periods of rest, you can actually increase productivity, manage stress, and boost creativity. 

From a scientific lens, the body needs 20 minutes of rest every 90 minutes. Your body has an ultradian rhythm which can be defined simply as body intervals or signals that occur while you’re awake. Our bodies are designed to be in sync with the cycles around us, meaning we aren’t meant to wake up, work, sleep, repeat in a linear manner. Some signs that it may be time to rest are fatigue, hunger/thirst, and fidgeting. 

By supporting your body with rest, you’ll naturally feel refreshed. Some of my favorite benefits are:

• Physically: immune system regulates

• Mentally: stress reduces, productivity improves

• Emotionally: perspective changes, mood boosts

• Spiritually: space for self care and deeper connections

Rest also doesn’t just mean taking naps. Rest can look like:

• Sitting quietly, disconnected from technology 

• Hydration

• Move to a new location

• Stand Up

• Go outdoors for a few minutes

• Brainless tasks (i.e folding laundry)

I encourage you intentionally create time for rest during your day and to always listen to your body.

And as the final takeaway, scrolling on your phone isn’t really rest. You’re being inundated with information and content – probably more than the brain would like to handle. So disconnect, and allow your mind the chance to experience genuine rest.

Lauren