Let's talk about rest. I've blogged about this before, but it's essential and something I'm struggling with lately. I have a lot of things I want to do in my life, and I have many things I have committed myself to. This takes a lot of time. But, the thing I am most committed to is balancing all of the things in my life that I consider important. Things like my spiritual health (prayer, reading, church), career (office, driving, blogs, podcasts), being a parent (family time in general and time with my son), physical health (eating healthy, exercising), housework (cleaning, laundry), and of course, rest.
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Now, rest can be a few things. Sleep is always in this category, but things like taking time away from work, or spending time doing something you love that you may not get time to do on a regular basis. For me, rest is anything that gives my mind, body, or spirit a break from my daily routine. There are times that we get to have a break from work but there are things that need to be done around the house (mow the lawn, repair/replace an appliance) and even though you get a "day off", this time is filled doing work around the house. They need to get done, but there's no deposit into your rest and relaxation capital account.
"Naps are a tool I use to pace myself and not get oversaturated." —Rick Owens
Which brings me to this self-aware, balance-based publication. The truth behind neglecting your time for rest is risking getting overwhelmed, and for people in recovery like me, you move closer to slipping into relapse. Overstimulation will do that to you, and without the proper self-awareness, cravings start creeping in and you're just one step away from day 1 all over again. I'd like to add that this is where a support system can be crucial. Sponsors, Peer Recovery Coaches, Therapists, Supportive Friends & Family, and then the action of rigorous honesty and reaching out to them can completely change the game when our lives start becoming unmanageable.
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So, take a day off, watch a sunset, take a nap, go to the beach, or read a book. Anything that zens you out personally and recharges your batteries. It's good for your soul, and great for your recovery.
Until next time.
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