Rest. Reset. Refresh.
Do you ever feel like you're drowning in information, texts, phone calls, social media notifications, and emails?
It’s never-ending!
It’s been weighing a lot on me lately.
I can't keep up with it all.
But here's the thing, friends - we're not meant to.
Our systems aren’t wired to be on alert all the time! We aren’t meant to live lives where we are expected to be accessible at any point in the day.
We're not created to live life at such a pace. We were created for a simple life (think riding on camels), not a plugged-in life (think riding in a jet plane).
Information comes at us at warp speed, and we have to work really hard to make sure that we protect ourselves from the stress that it can cause. Nobody is going to do that for us.
No one’s going to help me slow down but me.
So that’s what I’m doing. I’m going to practice what I preach and jump into the simple life.
More specifically: the beach life.
I'm joining my family for some time with toes in the sand, beach waves, family dinners, game nights, and rich memories. This week, I'm practicing self-care and going to a place where I can unplug, unwind, and be intentional with those I love.
I'm turning off the noise.
Resting.
Resetting.
And refreshing.
It's so important that we make rest a priority in our lives. We can all make rest a priority when we remember these three truths:
REST REJUVENATES THE BODY
Rest relaxes the mind, boosts our immune system, reduces stress, and lowers our blood pressure. Our brain needs time to recover without being overwhelmed by information. Not just rest when we sleep. Yes, our bodies need quality sleep, but we also need rest in our days.
REST BRINGS US INTO OUR WINDOW OF TOLERANCE
Don't know about the Window of Tolerance? You're missing out. Check out this quick explanation. The Window of Tolerance is the space where our nervous system is relaxed, grounded, and regulated. We can live in peace and joy instead of in stress and overwhelm.
REST GIVES US SPACE TO CONNECTS WITH OTHERS
We're created for connection. Social connection lowers anxiety and depression and helps us regulate our emotions. When we're connected, our immune system is healthier, our blood pressure is lower, and we have a more positive outlook on life. Relationships automatically relax our nervous system, reminding us that we're not alone. Helps us believe that we can handle challenges and obstacles that come our way.
However you can make rest a priority in your life...do it! Schedule time to make rest a priority.
Ditch the devices.
Be present where you are, and with those you love.
Embrace practices that leave you feeling recharged and ready to jump back into life.
Life's too short to live it stressed. We were never meant to!
You’re amazing! Start living like it!
Kim Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP) and a Certified Life Professional Coach (CPLC) who loves helping others live their lives with passion and purpose. She lives with her husband and two teenagers outside of Nashville, in Franklin, Tennessee, where she loves seasons, rolling hills, and the warmth of the South. Follow Kim at www.kimanderson.life, on Instagram @kim_anderson_life, and on Facebook@ KimAndersonLifeCoachingto learn more about what she offers.
