I am a HUGE fan of intentional rest as a way to contradict patterns of perfectionism, enduring, people-pleasing, fawning, and general malaise. It is also one way to get your body into the 'receiving mode'. Intentional rest aka doing nothing is really great for those of us who are compelled to stay busy, to be in the 'doing' rather than the 'receiving'.

Imagination is also the first form of movement, so when we allow our brains and bodies time to rest and do less, they can have space to dream and imagine which can in turn, actually move us further along in our path. It may seem counter productive, but rest can help us be more centered, focused, and alert, thus increasing our productivity or our output. That being said, I do not encourage resting for the sake of being more productive or to give or do more.

You are worthy of rest without having to do a thing to earn it. You are worthy of rest just because you want to. You do not have to be sick or tired to do nothing.

"When we rest, that is when we will be able to go into a portal to get the divine information for our freedom. Resting and daydreaming is a portal to our imagination." - Tricia Hersey, founder of The Nap Ministry

The invitation:

Create a nest for rest. Perhaps your coziest blanket, couch, nook, or bed. Maybe you get all the pillows and place them around your body. Perhaps placing them where you want support. Gather any 'extra' items you might want to make this a luxurious experience. Do you want an eye mask or an eye pillow? Do you prefer a gentle soundtrack or a guided meditation? Do you want to stare off into the abyss? Perhaps scan your body for places of tension and relaxation - can you sink into the support of your nest? How can you support yourself in doing nothing? Perhaps set a timer with a gentle sound to welcome you back - Can you try 5 minutes? 10? 20?

Reflections:

What do you notice about your body before/after resting? What sensations, images, sounds, etc.

What thoughts and feelings do you have about resting or 'doing nothing'? What beliefs do you hold about 'doing nothing' or resting? How do they serve you? How do they not serve you?

At what point do you get restless? When/if you do: what is your impulse to move or do something?