Why You Must Have Deep Rest

 
Allowing myself deep rest is a classic 'work in progress'. I have a tendency to move from doing things for others to work, jobs, exercise and round again. When I can convince myself I need me time I often find a shoulds list attached. This is an epidemic issue, especially for women.
 
I was discussing this topic with a wise psychologist recently. My need for rest was high yet my list of work jobs was pressuring my thinking mind. I have a bossy, strong ego around doing. She told me restoration means to restore a connection to one's self. I like that. It's something we habitually avoid. My conditioning is all about staying productive. It's an easy way to get attention and energy. And seeking that from outside one's self is not only unhealthy, it's tiring and unfulfilling.  
 
I know that a balanced authentic life means greater health on every level so I am keen to make deep rest a priority. I love my weekly restorative yoga class. I probably need 7 of them though. Rest must happen regularly.
 
Here's some benefits of rest:

• Rest reduces the risk of heart disease and inflammation. If you sit for your work note this fact – Each one hour increase in sitting time associates with an 18% increased cardiovascular disease mortality risk. Ok, I am now standing at my laptop!

 

• Keeping the pace up without adequate rest depresses your immune system.

 

• This one is a quick fix – your mental energy will be restored. Your aha moments will just appear. Clarity is a super bonus of rest time.

 

• This gem I found might excite you creative types. My ego mind can actually get on board with this fact: " ...reflective time is critical to producing solutions and creative breakthroughs."

 

• Studies have shown that working more hours actually means less productivity as well as reducing your ability to focus.

 

• Your short term memory will improve.

 

• You will process change more effectively.

 
Schedule your rest time if that works for you. Try telling yourself it's ok to not have any demands on your time. No need to rush, no shoulds. Give yourself permission. You may be drawn to do but it will have a calmer, easier quality.
 
wishing you deep rest
 
with light
Dawn

Image by Amy Treasure