 In a recent discussion amongst Holistic Practitioners the question was asked “Why do clients come to see you?” “Why do they come back?” After thinking about this I decided that a part of the reason was perhaps, the opportunity to take a “time out” for however long they were on my table. That for an hour or more they could rest in mind, body and spirit, not be “on” and not have to be “doing”. Instead for a short time they could just rest and be. Why do I get this impression? Because the thing I hear from you most often is “I have never felt so relaxed. Ever." Taking “time out” or resting your mind, body and spirit is a crucial part of physical, mental and emotional health. It does not have to be earned. When I speak of rest it is not necessarily in the context of sleeping, napping, being on the massage table, etc. But can also mean allowing yourself those moments to rest your mind and brain and/or relax your body, or taking a break from people or situations that you find emotionally draining. Rest keeps you healthy, re-energizes you and often leads to a more positive mind-set.  As humans it is not our true nature, though society glorifies it, to hustle and push ourselves to be constantly on and productive. Rest can often feel like a reward we have to earn after we’ve completed every task, rather than a basic and natural need. Many of us have bought into the expectations that society places upon us to be constantly available via phone, text and email, to put in hours of work and produce results on a continual hamster wheel, setting and meeting self-imposed goals and deadlines… Concepts and ideas that need to be unlearned.  Your body needs down time in order to digest, repair and reset. Taking time to adequately rest your body reduces injuries and illness. Your mind needs quiet space and time to find clarity and peace. Taking time can often improve your mood and outlook. To ignore these basic human needs and rights sets you up for burn out. If you don’t take the time to rest, your body will step in and make you do it. It's protective in that way. How you rest is as individual as you are. I read an article where they suggested asking yourself these questions: What helps my mind to feel quiet? What makes my body feel relaxed and safe? Your answers to these 2 questions need to be incorporated into your daily activities for ultimate well-being. Suggestions for rest:
How do you rest?
Do You acknowledge that rest is something that you do not have to earn?
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Teresa Graham,
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