Why it’s good to rest…but not quit
I’m sure you’re glad that Summer is here. For me it’s always a chance to take a break and rest. Being able to spend more time outside in the sunshine brings a sense of ease. Just being able to leave home without a coat is a bonus. These days life can seem always busy. Juggling our jobs, social lives, running our homes creates never-ending to-do lists. So when Summer comes with bright mornings and light evenings, it brings a relaxation.
It’s time to take rest seriously
I have to confess that I never used to use the word rest. I didn’t think it was any different to sleep. Perhaps it’s my years of working in busy corporate jobs. Or the pandemic and the worry and stress it created, all taught me the importance of rest. I’m thinking about the rest I’ve heard our grandmothers and mothers talk about. The rest they knew that really restores you mind, body and spirit. The rest that prevents stress and sickness from taking a toll on our health.
Where should you start?
I’ll start with our sleep. Yes this means having a sleep routine. Some of the top tips given for sleep ‘hygiene’ are:
- Wind done before bedtime. Put down devices – phones, tablets, etc – yes put them down.
- Have a relaxing warm bath or shower before bed. This is a great thing to do after a stressful day.
- Have a set time for going to bed. Consistency is key and getting you body into a routine helps.
I’m thinking about the rest I’ve heard our grandmothers and mothers talk about. The rest they knew that really restores you mind, body and spirit. The rest that prevents stress and sickness from taking a toll on our health.
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I also see rest as some of the things we do for relaxation. Reading a book, laughing at a funny film or listening to some calming music. My favourite is to put done my phone, switch off the alerts and take a nap. This is seriously underrated 🙂 I feel like all these are good for my body, emotional and mental health.
What am I doing to rest?
As I said at the beginning, I’m enjoying these sunny days. So long walks in the park is something I really enjoy. I’ve also decided to take the rest of the summer off, for time to rest and re-focus. Any Bloggers and Side-Hustlers will tell you how busy life gets. For me it’s no different. So, I’ll be taking the next month to rest, while thinking about plans and content for Afrowoman Online. You’ll still see the #Wellnesswednesday posts and other content, But it’ll be nice to have the ‘head space’ to think while not rushing too. But I promise to be back with fresh, engaging content; there won’t be any quitting 🙂 Whatever you have planned for the Summer, I hope you find the time to have fun and truly rest.
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