The Discipline of Rest

Well, I tried to go to the gym this morning. I walked halfway there then turned around and came home.

It’s hard for me to rest sometimes. After so many years of being unwell—unable to comfortably move my body, or care for myself, my home, and Saba—taking a break can feel scary, like I’m slipping.

I’ve learned on my journey that self-care doesn’t always equate to comfort. Sometimes self-care means eating nourishing foods instead of sweets, because in the long run, that’s what helps us feel better. Sometimes it means making ourselves get up, go out, and exercise when all we want to do is lie in bed. There’s a time to honour our bodies and allow ourselves to rest, and a time to realize that discipline and consistency are also vital acts of self-love. Bubble baths and massages are important, and self-care also means making choices that best support our long term wellbeing.

This has become a favourite quote of mine:

“If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness.”

~Joyce Sunada

In 2018, I adopted the Four Pillars of Health (Sleep, Food, Movement, & Connection) into my life. I learned about them from my psychologist. They’ve become my foundation and a helpful guide. When I feel off, I review them like a checklist, revealing what area(s) I might be slipping in.

Exercise is ingrained into my daily lifestyle so it’s not a pillar I’m lacking in. For me, rest is a priority as that’s an area I struggle with. Everybody’s journey is different when it comes to our needs and where we’re at in our health or recovery. Today, I give myself permission to rest. What will you do for yourself?