Are you really resting - or just zoning out?

Ever flop on the couch at the end of the day—phone in hand, snack nearby—scrolling, watching, snacking…

…but somehow you still wake up the next morning exhausted?

You’re not alone.

Most of us are really good at checking out—but not so good at resting.

Here’s the thing:

Numbing out feels like rest in the moment… but it rarely leaves you feeling restored. True rest actually nourishes your body, mind, and nervous system—so you can show up for your life with more energy, not less.

It’s not your fault if you confuse the two. We live in a world that tells us to earn our rest—then hands us endless ways to distract ourselves when we finally slow down.

So how do you tell the difference?

Try This: The Check-In Test

Next time you reach for your favourite “wind down” habit, pause and ask: Is this filling me up… or just helping me avoid?

If you’re not sure, notice how you feel after. True rest leaves you feeling softer, steadier, more connected to yourself. Numbing out usually leaves you feeling drained, guilty, or still wired.

There’s no shame here—we all do it. But when you know the difference, you can start choosing more of what actually supports you.

More sleep instead of more scrolling. More quiet time instead of another late-night snack. More moments that feel like care, not just escape.

This week, see if you can swap one numbing-out habit for something truly restful.

You deserve to rest—deeply and often.

Remember, progress not perfection!

Shelley Turk