Rest is not always easy for me. Resting while I’m sick is even harder, ironically. My mindset when I’m resting is that I’m getting further and further behind instead of seeing it as an intentional way I’m taking care of myself. I also feel like I’m missing out and not able to do the things that make me feel alive. In short, I get anxious and fearful. I worry how long I will be sick, and can easily get trapped in worse case scenario thinking.
I think there are multiple reasons for this, but I’ll highlight two that rise to the top:
- Rest interferes with my identity and corresponding beliefs about who I am or should be. “I can push through, I am strong, etc, etc, etc)”
- We live (and often buy into) a culture that praises exhaustion and performance. You don’t have to look (or scroll) very far to see posts or information on how to be better, perform faster, or be more efficient. And while those things are not’ all bad in and of themselves, when was the last time you remember really resting?
What I’m learning however, is that our bodies will eventually rest- whether it’s convenient or not. When I look back over the past few months, I can now see that I was overextending myself. I hosted over 30 people in our home during the holidays and worked more than I have in months during the 6 weeks before Christmas. Throw in two trips, holiday parties, sports seasons for my kids, and preparation for Christmas, and I can now see why my body was wearing down.
So while I’m eager to get going on my goals for 2025, I’m giving myself this month to slow down a bit and recover. I heard on a podcast recently that January was the new week between Christmas and New Years. That resonates with the type of pace I want to start a new year that will include sending off my first born to college. I definitely want to be rested for that..and all the moments in between.
But these thoughts are just thoughts without understanding what rest actually looks like. I’m still on the journey, but I believe it starts with slowing down. Observing. Noticing. Saying no to a whole lot so that there’s margin for the gifts of the present and room for the possibilities of the future.
Questions for reflection:
How do you know that you are rested? What do you experience in your mind, body, and emotions that are telling you that?
How do you ease into rest on a daily basis? Weekly basis? Monthly and Yearly?
How easy or difficult is it for you to rest?
How will you know if you are getting to the point where you need more rest?
What practices could you put into place to prevent burnout?
At The Pursuit, we believe in empowering you to live your best life. Located in Fayetteville, GA near Town at Trilith and Trilith Studios, our team of skilled therapists is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized counseling services. Whether you’re seeking support for life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or personal growth, we prioritize evidence-based strategies, compassion, and tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Your journey toward a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life begins here. Ready to take the first step? Click “Book Now” to start your Pursuit of meaningful change and personal growth.
Continue reading to explore how The Pursuit can help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.
By: Mary Laughlin APC
