Sheila D. Boynton, LSW, MDiv, CTCP, CAMS-I
Hello Soul Family,
I was recently listening to a sermonic message when the speaker’s inclusion of talking about REST caused my ears to perk up. He talked about REST being a who, REST being a what, and REST being a where. Not unpacking there here, but his underlining message caused me to reflect on my relationship with REST. As a therapist, speaker, life coach, wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, auntie, friend, etc., just how dedicated I am to others. I don’t think I need to tell you that after careful self-examination and self-honesty, my relationship with REST needs a mediator (smile). And I know I am not alone. In giving so much of ourselves to others and the roles we play, we often neglect one of the most vital aspects of self-care: REST.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, REST is often neglected or seen as laziness or being unproductive. While fulfilling various roles, work, school, clients, juggling schedules, etc., we overlook the need for REST and how important it is for our mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. REST plays a fundamental role in ensuring that we can function at our best. It goes beyond simply sleeping or taking breaks; it’s about rejuvenating our mi
nd, body, and spirit. REST is about being available for yourself and deliberately allowing yourself to be refocused and rejuvenated. And rest doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means doing what nourishes and regenerates you to show up as the best version of yourself.
REST is not a one-size-fits-all concept. In fact, there are seven types of REST that we need to replenish our energy and recharge:
- Physical Rest – This is the traditional concept of rest, involving sleep and relaxation to restore your body.
- Mental Rest – A break for your mind from constant thinking and decision-making. It’s the ability to give your brain a pause from processing information or other folks issues.
- Emotional Rest – Releasing the burden of other people’s emotions, especially when you care deeply for others or carry the emotional weight of family and friends.
- Social Rest – Taking a break from social obligations, such as spending time with people who drain your energy, and making time for those who uplift and contribute to your well-being.
- Sensory Rest – Disconnecting from overstimulation, whether it’s bright lights, loud noises, or constant notifications from your devices. Stepping away from screens for a while can do wonders for your mental clarity and emotional well-being.
- Creative Rest – Allowing yourself a break from constantly creating, problem-solving, and producing new ideas. Sometimes we need to step back to allow our creativity to return naturally.
- Spiritual Rest – Reconnecting with your spiritual well-being, whether through prayer, meditation, nature, or moments of reflection. It’s about finding peace and a sense of purpose in life.
So, why is REST significant?
- Rest Restores Our Energy
When we rest, our bodies and minds have the opportunity to recharge. Just like our phone needs to be plugged in to regain power, we need rest to restore the energy we expend throughout the day. Without adequate rest, our bodies begin to operate on low energy, making us more susceptible to fatigue, stress, and physical illness
- Rest Improves Mental Health
Our mental well-being is deeply connected to rest. Inadequate rest can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Mental rest, such as taking breaks throughout the day, allows us to clear our minds and process emotions more effectively, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional balance
- Rest Enhances Physical Health
Physical rest, particularly sleep, is crucial for the repair and recovery of the body. Consistent rest boosts our ability to fight off illness and manage stress
- Rest Increases Productivity
It might seem counterintuitive, but resting actually makes us more productive. When we’re well-rested, our focus and efficiency improve, and we can perform tasks with greater accuracy and creativity. Constantly pushing ourselves without taking time to rest leads to burnout, decision fatigue, and decreased performance
- Rest Promotes Emotional Balance
Rest is integral to maintaining emotional equilibrium. Emotional rest, particularly for those in caregiving or helping professions, is essential for preventing burnout. Without emotional rest, we risk becoming overwhelmed by the emotional weight of others’ experiences, leading to compassion fatigue. By allowing ourselves the time and space to recharge emotionally, we become better equipped to offer support to others without sacrificing our own emotional well-being
- Rest Supports Creativity and Problem-Solving
Taking breaks, especially from creative tasks, fosters a better flow of ideas. Our best ideas often come when we step away from the problem, allowing our minds to work in the background without active effort. Rest, such as going for a walk or meditating, can spark creative solutions and offer new perspectives.
- Strengthens Relationships
Rest is also crucial for healthy relationships, especially in busy family or professional environments. When we are rested, we are more patient, empathetic, and able to communicate effectively with others. On the other hand, when we’re sleep-deprived or mentally exhausted, we may become irritable, less engaged, and less emotionally available to our loved ones. Resting allows us to be fully present and engaged in our interactions, strengthening our connections and building healthier relationships.
- Rest Enhances Spiritual Connection
Spiritual rest involves taking time to connect with something greater than ourselves. This could involve prayer, meditation, or simply spending time in nature. It’s a time to recharge our sense of faith and hope, which can provide us with strength during tough times.
- Rest Cultivates Self-Awareness and Reflection
Rest also gives us the space to reflect on our own needs, desires, and feelings. Taking time to rest allows us to slow down and engage in self-reflection. This pause can help us process emotions, gain clarity about our life goals, and nurture our personal growth.
- Rest Supports Long-Term Success
While rest may seem like an indulgence or a break from productivity, it actually supports long-term success. People who prioritize rest tend to have more sustained energy, better focus, and a greater sense of well-being, all of which contribute to achieving long-term goals.
Remember, you don’t have to be “on” all the time. REST is a necessity for optimal health, creativity, productivity, and emotional well-being. So, how can YOU incorporate more REST into your life?
JOURNAL PROMPTS
- Which types of rest (physical, emotional, mental, etc.) do I need most right now?
THE SOUL’S CORNER…
- “Is Taking a Break in a Relationship Ever Actually Helpful?” by Jenna Ryu in
- The Case for Letting Yourself Have a Good Cry, by Grace McCarty in SELF.
