Wellness Tip: Resting 101

Rest.

When you read that word, what do you feel?  What comes to mind?

We often talk of needing more rest in our lives, but what exactly does rest mean to you?

When I think of rest, I think of stepping away from the busyness of life and resting my mind and body. So many individuals know they need to slow down, to get more sleep, to rest but they just don't know how or where to start. 

If you need tips for how to add rest into your wellness routine, here are 5 tips to get you moving in the right direction:

1. STOP and just PAUSE ... and give yourself a chance to be still for a few minutes.
2. Ask yourself why what you're reading is so meaningful to you right now.
3. Next, it is time to plan and be intentional about what changes you wish to make in your
life in regards to adding more rest. Think about what you may have tried in the past and
what worked and not worked. What things come up for you?
4. If you need ideas for adding more rest to your life, here are a few suggestions:

• Get more sleep
  
• Book a massage on a regular basis
• Spend time with loved ones
• Carve out consistent time to read a book, listen to podcasts, etc.
  
• Add meditation to your days
• Journal your thoughts
• Start an indoor or outdoor plant garden
• Move in a way that relaxes your body and mind
  
• Set aside time to watch your favorite TV show
• Take a stroll outside
• Cook your favorite meal
• Cuddle with your pet
  

5. If you are ready to experiment with what might work for you to get more rest in your life, set a S.M.A.R.T goal(s). Your goal(s) should be:

• S - Specific
• M - Measurable
• A - Action Oriented
• R - Realistic
• T - Timely

Here's an example of a S.M.A.R.T goal around rest: On Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays do 5 minutes of meditation before bed at 10pm. This meets the S.M.A.R.T criteria, is doable, and gets you started right away.

For more information and support on setting S.M.A.R.T goals for a more meaningful life our Wellness Coach, Nadene is ready to partner with you!  Email us for more info!

By: Nadene White