The world can send us messages to keep pushing, even when we are physically or mentally tired. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where we cannot get the adequate rest we need for short periods. However, when this goes on chronically, our brains and bodies suffer. Often, when we're running on fumes, we might add some sugar, have one more cup of coffee (or two), and ignore the signs of our body crying uncle! We hope the sugar or caffeine will give us that extra "umph" we need to press on and be strong.
I've learned the hard way over time that this doesn't work in the long run. Eventually, our brains and bodies cry out in anxiety, stress, brain fog, or physical ailments like muscle tension, headaches, and back pain. Sometimes, we even go to a physician looking for a cure to the pain that ails us, only to find out there's nothing medically wrong. It's our bodies begging us to slow down.
Here are a few myths about rest:
Rest is weakness.
Rest is laziness.
Rest is not your best.
Rest is the easy way out.
Here are a few truths about rest:
Rest is strength of character, acknowledging that to be our best, rest is a must!
Rest is productive and wise. Discerning when our brains are tired and resting will yield more creativity.
Rest allows you to operate at your best. It doesn't necessarily mean sleep; it can mean a walk in nature, reading a book, or baking something.
Rest is hard as it requires us to lay down our pride and admit soldiering on is hurting us rather than helping.
Make the choice to take care of yourself today by:
Taking a short 15-minute walk.
Spending 10 minutes reading something you enjoy.
Simply sitting in a quiet space and doing some meditative breathing.
Choosing water over coffee.
Choosing a piece of fruit over chocolate.
Today is a gift. Love yourself by resting a little each day!
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