If rest feels uncomfortable, unproductive, or “wrong,” you’re not alone.
Many of us grew up in environments where rest was earned, not given, or where taking a break meant you were lazy, unmotivated, or disappointing someone.
But guilt around rest isn’t a personal flaw.
It’s a learned response shaped by:
- cultural messages about productivity
- being the “strong” or “responsible” one
- living with minority stress or survival pressure
- never seeing rest modeled to us (as children or adults)
- burnout cycles
- perfectionism or fear of falling behind
Here’s a small, but effective reframe you can use today:
Rest is not a reward… It’s a biological need.
You (and your nervous system) literally cannot regulate, integrate new information, or heal without cycles of pause and recovery.
Just in case you missed that… REST IS NEEDED FOR SURVIVAL!!
Try one of these micro-rests:
- if you feel safe to, close your eyes or lower your gaze for 20-30 seconds
- reach out and stretch your body
- take three deep belly breaths with extended exhales
- take a lap around the room you're in
- put your hand on your chest and think of something you are grateful for
- listen to a song you like
- step away from your screens for one full minute
Small rests count.
Your body notices even if you don't.