This time of year in parts of the world, the leaves are changing color and falling. Harvests are wrapping up. Fields will be left fallow. We could all use some fallow (rest) time too. 

We don’t have to be busy all the time. 

We’re likely not to be able to take a whole fallow season, but we can all benefit from some time to rest and recharge. 

Why We Need Rest

Rest is important for our bodies, our brains, and our emotions. It allows for renewal. 

Sleep supports our immune system and allows our bodies to heal and grow. It also gives us energy to use throughout the day and helps us learn. 

We also benefit from down time when we aren’t sleeping. There is so much information coming at us constantly, and so many of us feel the need to always be productive or doing something. We need time to switch off and slow down. 

Down time allows us to recharge and refresh. And recharging and refreshing boosts our creativity and energy. Recharging and refreshing also helps you to avoid burnout. We think of rest as an extra something we just don’t have time for, but really, it’s essential. 

How to Rest and Recharge in a Go Go World

So how do you rest and recharge when life moves so fast and the pressure is on (internally or externally) to stay busy? 

Remember (or find out) how it feels. Do you remember how good it feels to be rested? Think about the last time you felt that way. If you can’t remember, give yourself time to rest and really notice the effect. 

Being “on” all the time can wear you down. I try setting boundaries and also dedicated rest time. My favorite rest activity is walking in nature, noticing the beauty around me. What might you do for rest?

You can choose not to check or respond to messages right away. You can turn off social media or the news. You can choose times when you do not work. You can make time for friendship or nature or whatever you love. And you can hold those boundaries. 

Recharging doesn’t look the same for everyone. Do you know how you recharge? Here are some ideas:

• Time in nature 
• Take a nap
• Meditate
• Do something with your hands — knit, knead bread, sketch or color
• Do something that works your body but rests your mind, like walking, yoga, dance, or even weeding your garden (one of my favorites)
• Take time to wander instead of rushing
• Spend a day without any time table 
• Spend time with friends

Pick a day when you don’t schedule anything and see what feels good to do with your down time. If you are used to “doing” all the time, it might feel a little weird to not do, see what happens if you stick with it.

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