In our fast-paced culture, being busy is often seen as a sign of success. However, constantly being on the go can wreak havoc on our physical health. Not taking enough downtime can lead to increased stress levels and a weakened immune system. If you’re under any additional stress in your life, taking time to rest your body is essential, otherwise, your body will force you to rest.
Resting sufficiently can help rebuild your energy levels and strengthen your immune system, especially if you’re dealing with chronic stress. Unfortunately, our society doesn’t place enough emphasis on the importance of rest and often encourages people to “burn the candle at both ends.”
Life is short no matter how many years you live, so there’s no point in working so hard that you can’t enjoy the simple things in life. While there are times when you may need to work hard, such as when you’re in college and have to work full-time, or when you’re a single parent working two jobs, it’s important to make time for rest even during hectic periods. Many people use their time off unwisely by running around and doing things when they should be resting. You can still have fun and enjoy your time off without pushing yourself too hard and getting sick.
Your life should be balanced, with equal amounts of time for work, play, and rest. Some days you may need a little more rest because of persistent stressors that can exhaust your energy levels and diminish your immune system’s ability to fight colds and viruses.
Reflect and ponder: Do you push yourself to keep going and doing when your body is telling you it needs rest? Why do you believe you feel the need to keep going?
Life Coaching Tips:
Your body will let you know when it needs rest. If you’ve experienced several of the following symptoms, your body may be telling you to slow down:
– Fatigue
– Difficulty getting up in the morning
– Difficulty staying or falling asleep
– Difficulty concentrating
– Distracted and loss of focus
– Irritability, short-fused, or agitation
– Upset stomach
– Headaches
– General malaise
– Easily frustrated
– Appetite change decrease or increase in eating habits
– Frequent sighing
– Shortness of breath
– Anxiousness
– Depression
– Loss of motivation
– Lack of creativity
What can you do during your times of rest?
1. Turn off your cell phone and check it at the end of the day.
2. Do not engage in social media. Checking your Facebook status will not help you rest.
3. Lay down and take a nap.
4. Watch an enjoyable movie and eat your favorite snack.
5. Take a warm bubble bath.
6. Take a leisurely walk in your neighborhood.
7. Get your chores out of the way so that you don’t have to do them during your time of rest.
8. Read a good book.
9. Spend quiet time with God. Be still and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak.
10. Spend time just “soaking” with worship music.
11. Sit outside and observe God’s beautiful creations.
What not to do when your body needs rest:
1. Running around when your body is depleted.
2. Hanging out with people who drain you.
3. Checking your phone, texts, emails, and social media.
4. Doing heavy chores or chores that take a while to complete.
5. Worrying and analyzing your problems over and over.
6. Doing anything that would cause stress.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Stephanie Reck
Featured Image by Ezequiel Garrido on Unsplash
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