Taking a Day of Rest
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It’s important that we allow ourselves a rest day. Ideally, we'll find a full day to recharge each week, but sometimes our schedule can seem so demanding that we can only practice this “lazy day” once every couple weeks. We should try to schedule a time for rest at least a few times a month, even if it means taking half or quarter rest days to cultivate ease so we may stay in our best mental and physical health. We can organize our time to include time to practice resting.
Taking a day of rest doesn’t mean we have to stay in bed or sit perfectly still all day. A lazy day is a day to relax, free of scheduled activities. We are free to do, without rushing or worrying. A rest day can unfold naturally, and we can do whatever makes us feel best in each moment. We can breathe and walk mindfully, resting in our steps and finding energy in our breath. We can meditate, listen to relaxing noises, or listen to a guided deep relaxation. We can enjoy some time outside, joyfully observing the clouds and watching the shadows moving and changing. We can write, cook a thoughtful meal, work on something artistic, or read something inspiring. |
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It’s easy to distract from our feelings when we’re busy, so our day of rest helps us uncover how we’re really feeling. We can use some of our restful time to reflect into our mental wellbeing, our relationships, our daily activities, and our current situations. We can calmly face how we’re really feeling by using the stillness and ease cultivated in a day of relaxation. When we’re balanced and rested, we’ll be happier, peaceful, and more observant, leading us to organically uncover valuable insights we may usually miss when stressed.
Restful Activities
 Write!
Journal, Produce a Song or Poetry |
 Create Something!
Paint, Draw, Try a Project or Craft |
 Cook Something Nourishing!
Make a Favorite Meal, Try a New Recipe |
 Garden!
Plant Some Seeds, Water the Plants, Make a Beautiful Flower Arrangement |
 Chat!
Message a Close Friend, Make a New Friend Online, Join a Forum or Chatroom |
 Pamper Yourself!
Enjoy a Warm Shower or Bath, Exfoliate, Use Nice Bath Products, Moisturize, Indulge in Hygiene |
 Have Fun!
Play a Board or Video Game, Enjoy Friendly Competition with Others, Laugh and Be Silly |
 Get Outside!
Breathe Fresh Air, Enjoy the Sunshine, Do an Elemental Activity, Look at the Sky |
 Do Light Housework!
Tidy, Get Some Laundry Done, Organize Your Space + Invite In Some Fresh Energy! |
 Take a Nap!
Snooze, Read in Bed, Sleep In, Enjoy Full Body Relaxation |
 Do a Hobby!
Focus on an Activity You Enjoy, Learn How to Do Something New |