BUSY FAMILIES Rest is More Than Sleep

By Lisa Payne

The holidays are the most wonderful time of year but can also be extremely exhausting. When you are running on empty the first thing we think of is I need more sleep! There are many ways to rest your body. Here are a few situations to be aware of and ways to keep your engine full while keeping up with all the excitement of the season.

Mental rest is as important as physical sleep. When our minds are tired we tend to be quick to think negatively which is very draining. An example could be when your partner asks where something is and you are quick to respond with irritation. Or maybe the kids want a snack and you immediately feel mad that they can’t get one themselves. Signs you need a mental break include mental fog, irritability, avoiding tasks where you could make an error, and feeling down. When you feel the mental drain happening, try going for a walk outside or do a few yoga stretches. Anything that uses your body and not your mind.

Sensory overload is another very real thing. On the daily we have to deal with it at home and at work. Bright fluorescent lights. Loud blow dryers. Heavy perfume smells. Sometimes you don’t know why you are being jarred by loud sounds or don’t feel like being touched. Maybe you are stressed listening to loud chatter in a crowded room. Be mindful of what is causing your irritation and build in steps to free your senses. Wear noise canceling headphones. Listen to the birds outside. Remove yourself from the situation and do some deep breathing in a quiet space.

Social rest is something that is hard to do during the holidays. Our calendars are bursting at the seams. However it is so important to pay attention to who you are spending time with. Those who lift your spirits and bring your heart joy should be at the top of your list. You know you are with the right people if after spending hours with them, you leave feeling alive, excited to see them again, and very peaceful.

Spiritual rest is at the top of my list to work on in 2025. This is having the ability to take time for yourself without feeling the guilt that you are being lazy or selfish. We show up for this world at our highest level when we connect with a higher power. Spiritual connection can be going to church, being out in nature on a hike, meditation, a long bike ride. Anything that feels restorative to you. Anything that calms your body and mind and reminds you that you are not responsible for everything going on in this world and it is okay to rest. No guilt.

As we navigate this busy season, let’s love each other not only with words, but with enough self-care so that we can show up overflowing with peace and love. Happiest of holidays to you all!

Lisa Payne writes about food, home, and family. You can reach her at paynefam6@gmail.com.