Rest is key to staying healthy

You know that ample sleep and time to relax are important to your health, but it can be so difficult when you have an unending to-do list. How can you find rest when so many good things are pulling you in different directions? Perhaps these tips can help:

Simply say “No.” It can be the hardest word to say. The next time someone asks you to commit to something and you aren’t sure, simply say “No.” Even better, say it without giving a reason why. You aren’t just saying no; you are protecting your time and energy.

Take a day (or less) to yourself. You probably know that too many people don’t take their vacation time. They should. It is a needed opportunity to relax and recharge. Vacation isn’t the only time to recharge, though. We all need a day now and then all to ourselves. If you can’t take a full day, consider taking half a day. If that isn’t possible, consider taking just an hour. You don’t have to make a dramatic retreat of it. Simply take the time to quiet yourself. Perhaps all you can afford is the time to take a walk, read a chapter or two in your book, or simply enjoy your favorite beverage on the porch. Whatever it is, time to yourself is important.

Walk away from your phone. We are so accustomed to being available at a moment’s notice. Simply walk away from your phone. If that isn’t possible, turn it to airplane mode for a while. If that isn’t possible, consider setting your phone down and walking away for even 10 minutes. Then keep extending that time.

Ignore that notification alert. When your phone rings with a call, text, email, or social media alert, know that you don’t have to respond right away. It is OK to not answer that phone or reply to that email immediately. Of course, emergencies and work deadlines will need prompt attention, but otherwise, be selective about who and what gets your attention.

Simply play. Do you remember what you enjoyed doing or wanted to try before life got busy and full? Incorporate that back into your life. Again, it may not be possible to take a whole day to “play,” but find some way to get that enjoyment back into your life each day.

You aren’t being selfish by following these tips to find rest. You are simply taking care to be the best and healthiest you!