Why Taking A “Rest Day” Should Be A Priority For Your Health

The idea of a “rest day” is one that religious leaders, ancient philosophers, corporate leaders, and athletes can all agree on. Taking a day during the week to rest and recharge is essential for a well-balanced life. 

Why is a rest day needed?

There is a sense of urgency in today’s society, with the always-on-the-go mentality becoming the norm. There are always too many tasks to do, and not enough hours in the day to do them. As a culture, we subscribe to the idea that the more you do, the better you should feel, yet we only end up falling further behind due to our constant piling of tasks. This frenzied lifestyle has thrown us off balance, leading to chronic stress, exhaustion, and burnout.

What is a rest day?

Rest days are typically thought of as an exercise-related time for your muscles to grow and recover from training. On the contrary to popular belief, your rest day should not solely exist as a break from exercise, but rather, it should be a well-deserved day of rest for you to recover both your mind and body.

Rest days look different for everybody. Activities can include going on a walk outside, reading a book, taking a bath, practicing yoga, getting a massage, cooking your favorite meal, watching movies in bed, or simply catching up on sleep. Regardless of what you do, the most important thing is for you to listen to your body and know how you are feeling. 

Here are our top two tips to help you successfully rest and rejuvenate for a more productive week: 

Dedicate One Day

Look at your schedule and find which day you can clear out to dedicate time for yourself. Pick a day and stick to it! Ensure that you have your rest day planned on your calendar, so you feel committed to yourself. 

Set Boundaries 

First, turn off the notifications and put away your phone. Now that you don’t have distractions, make a list of things you would like to do and things you do not want to do on your rest day. Making this list will help you keep organized and in line with the goals you set for the day. 

But most importantly, enjoy yourself! Your rest day is for you and no one else.

Do you take a rest day? If so, what is your favorite way to spend it? Comment on our Facebook and Instagram! 

Sources: 

Dachis, Adam. “21 Ways You Can Relax and Recharge on Your Day Off.” Lifehacker, Lifehacker, 24 June 2013, https://lifehacker.com/21-ways-you-can-relax-and-recharge-on-your-day-off-5837329www.lifehacker.com/21-ways-you-can-relax-and-recharge-on-your-day-off-5837329.

“The Lost Practice of Resting One Day Each Week.” Becoming Minimalist, JOSHUA BECKER, www.becomingminimalist.com/resting/.