Permission to Rest (Especially in December)

Here’s a gentle reminder I could probably tape to my own forehead this time of year:

Rest matters. A lot.

I talk a lot about workouts, consistency, and “not losing momentum,” especially around the holidays. But here’s the part that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the good stuff from your workouts actually happens after you’re done. Muscles rebuild when you rest. Energy comes back when you pause. Progress depends on recovery.

And it’s not just about your body.

December has a special talent for being (hopefully) joyful and exhausting. More plans, more noise, more everything. Even when it’s fun, it can leave you feeling wrung out. When that happens, pushing harder isn’t usually the answer — resting a bit more is.

Let’s talk about good-quality rest. Not just nighttime sleep (though yes, please get that), but the kind that makes you sigh a little when you sit down. Is there anything better than an afternoon nap on the couch with the fireplace on and the dog tucked in beside you? That’s not being lazy — that’s recovery with a side of happiness.

Cold weather helps too. Cold weather generally makes for good sleep. (It's gotta be good for SOMETHING!) Crisp air, cool bedrooms, heavy blankets — your body loves this stuff. It’s like winter is quietly encouraging us to slow down, even while the calendar insists otherwise.

From a training perspective, rest days aren’t a setback — they’re how you avoid burnout, soreness that won’t quit, and injuries that sideline you completely. Mentally, rest gives you a longer fuse, a clearer head, and a much better chance of actually enjoying the season instead of just surviving it.

So if you need permission to take a nap, go to bed earlier, or choose a gentler workout this week, here it is. You’re not falling behind. You’re taking care of yourself.

And honestly? That’s one habit worth keeping all year long.

Remember, progress not perfection!

Shelley Turk