Hey, welcome back! Remember last time we chatted about ditching the “perfectly balanced” myth and embracing messy, real-life self-care? We talked about how traditional self-care often feels like another set of rules, leading to more overwhelm; a cage for those of us carving our own paths!

Today, let’s dig deeper into one crucial aspect of self-care that’s often overlooked, especially when we’re constantly hustling: radical rest.

We’re a country that values productivity 100 We’re driven, passionate, and constantly striving to make a difference. Whether we’re building our own businesses, fighting for social justice, or exploring the world in a converted van, we’re always doing.

But here’s the hard truth: constant doing leads to burnout. And burnout doesn’t help us during the revolution!!!

We’ve been conditioned to believe that rest is a luxury, a reward for hard work. We’re not allowed to rest until every single task we can ever think of is complete! **sweat. But what if rest was the foundation of our work? What if we viewed it as a radical act of resistance against a system that thrives on our exhaustion? HERE FOR IT.

Why Radical Rest Matters for the “Against the Grain” Crowd:

• Fuel for the Fight: When we’re rested, we’re more creative, resilient, and effective. We have the mental clarity to tackle tricky problems and the emotions to navigate challenging situations.
• Reclaiming Our Time: In a world that constantly demands our attention, rest is an act of rebellion. It’s a way of reclaiming our time and prioritizing our well-being.
• Connection to Ourselves: Rest allows us to slow down, tune in to our bodies, and connect with our inner selves. It’s a space for introspection, reflection, and self-discovery. Your intuition will grow stronger the more you tune in to the quiet.
• Breaking the Cycle of Burnout: We can’t dismantle oppressive establishments if we’re constantly running on empty. Radical rest is essential for long-term sustainability. (high five if you know the reference)

What Does Radical Rest Look Like?

It’s not just about sleeping in (although that’s definitely part of it!). Radical rest is about intentionally creating space for stillness, quiet, and rejuvenation. It’s about disconnecting from the constant noise and reconnecting with ourselves. When is the last time you sat down with nothing in front of you to distract? No screens, no pets or kids, no music, just silence and your thoughts. It feels overwhelming at times, but the practice is worth the result!

Here are a few ideas:

• Digital Detox: Put your phone away, turn off your notifications, and disconnect from the online world.
• Nature Immersion: Spend time in nature, whether it’s hiking in the mountains, swimming in a lake, or simply sitting under a tree or walking around your neighborhood.
• Mindful Movement: Engage in activities that nourish your body and calm your mind, yes like yoga, but it can be any kind of movement that makes you feel at peace by connecting you to your physical body.
• Creative Expression: Explore your creativity through writing, painting, music, or any other form of self-expression.
• Conscious Downtime: Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media, engage in activities that truly relax you, such as reading a book, listening to music, or taking a warm bath.
• Naps!: Don’t underestimate the power of a good nap. Be mindful about how long your nap is; if you wake up in the middle of a sleep cycle you’ll wake up groggy and probably cranky!

The Rebel Yell:

Radical rest is not about being lazy; it’s about being intentional. It’s about recognizing that our well-being is essential for our activism, our creativity, and our overall happiness! It’s about refusing to participate in a system that thrives on our exhaustion **nope

Let’s make radical rest the foundation of our self-care revolution. Let’s reclaim our time, our energy, and our power. Let’s show the world that true rebellion starts with rest.

What does radical rest look like for you? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!