Rest is a Skill. Here's How to Practice it.

If you feel like you should know how to rest, but secretly don’t…

You’re not alone.

Rest isn’t easy for everyone, especially if you’ve spent years in “survival mode,” always doing, fixing, giving.

It’s no wonder so many of us confuse zoning out with true rest…or feel restless and uncomfortable when we finally do slow down.

But here’s the good news: Rest is a skill. And like any skill, it gets easier the more you practice it—without guilt, without perfectionism, and without waiting for the “perfect” time.

Here are 3 simple ways to practice real rest this week:

Micro-Rest: Take a 2-minute pause between tasks. No phone. No scrolling. Just be. Breathe. Let your shoulders drop.

Full-Body Rest: Try a 15-30 minute nap or restorative yoga pose (like legs up the wall).Don’t worry if your mind races—your body still gets the benefit.

Play Rest: Do something joyful just because: a short walk, time in the garden, doodling with your grandkids. Play is rest for your nervous system.

The goal isn’t to do this perfectly—it’s to remind your mind and body that you’re safe to slow down.

So this week, give yourself permission to choose even a moment of real rest…without earning it, explaining it, or feeling bad about it.

Rest is how you reset your energy, protect your health, and show up for what matters most.

You don't have to hustle for it. It's necessary. And you deserve it. 

Remember, progress not perfection!

Shelley Turk