Big Sister Advice #9
Starting this year, in addition to the Q & A, I’ll offer you some general words of wisdom, or stuff to think about, as you find helpful.
On Rest
Here’s my advice on rest in one sentence: Build rest into your routine. Don’t use rest as a reward, or a last resort, but instead plan your rest to give your body and brain time to recover and rejuvenate.
You cannot be productive if you do not rest.
You cannot be creative if you do not rest.
You cannot be effective if you do not rest.
So, how to rest? I have some ideas.
Have a sleep routine and schedule. Yes, I mean you should have a bedtime. It can be as simple or elaborate as you can sustain, but one of the important parts of this routine should be screen-free time at least 30 minutes before bed.
Spend some quiet time outside in some way. It could be at a local park, or a walk in your neighborhood, or a stroll along the beach, or sitting by the lake. Being outside is a great way to give our brains (and eyes!) some much needed rest, away from screens.
Balance your busy seasons with time off. If you know that you have an upcoming intense season, make some time to do nothing before or after. It could be a true day off, or it could be a day where you block your calendar so that you aren’t sucked into meetings or other engagements.
