A resolution to rest.

Well, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that.

At least, I didn’t mean to say it that way, I did mean it though.

Hey, hey! Your body here. Umm, not sure how to kick off this conversation with you now that I’ve got your attention, but a New Year is here and well… we need to do better. I’m sorry for talking to you like that earlier, as you can tell- I’m exhausted and a little irritable. Okay, medium irritable.

Alright, fine! I’m very irritable. I guess that’s what happens when we get no rest, along with other detrimental things that we’re absolutely NOT reeling into 2022.

Hear me out, I get it. The world is constantly moving, and we’ve been almost designed to think that success is only a result if rest is put on the back burner, bringing burnout to the frontline. I aspire for us to have a long, healthy and beautiful life together and I’ve put together a list of five (5) effective ways we can practice prioritizing rest for the New Year.

Let’s dive in!

1.) Listen to me. (Your body)

Though many may not like to admit or genuinely never notice because they're so consumed with tasks, I always speak up. As your body, I always let you know when we need to rest. Remember that time you were in mid-conversation and kept yawning every 30 seconds? That was me and that was a sign! Whether it's the tension you start to feel in your head or the anxiousness you start to feel overall, I let you know that it's time for rest. The problem arises when we miscommunicate, the only result we ever get from that- is burnout. Let's work on listening to each other better, the rewards will be great for the both of us!

2.) Say no.

Speaking of speaking up for ourselves, say no! I'll admit; for a two-letter word, it sure is hard for many of us to say. Understandably so, especially if you find joy in making others happy. It can be hard to decline offers or projects that may assist or please someone else, especially someone we care about. However, it's never worth it if it's at the expense of our need to recharge. Saying "no" to, or conveniently rescheduling tasks, engagements, gatherings, parties, jobs, assignments and even conversations we just don't have the capacity for, is a form of self-care. Taking on more than we can bare is a recipe for self-sabotage and well, I intend for us to love ourselves so much deeper this year. Ya know?

3.) Ditch the coffee, do the tea!

Ahh coffee, the magic elixir that provides us with just the energy we need- until we crash. Many teas contain a natural source of caffeine that provides us with a healthier alternative for an energy boost, no crashing included! Teas like Oolong Tea, Green Tea, and even Chai Tea have a delicious taste and natural caffeine. This makes them excellent teas for that extra kick with a side of a little indulgence. Make it a latte and add a splash of your favorite milk, dairy or non-dairy. Yum and done!

4.) Jump out of the Jamboree

Aka- skip the late-night party, clubbing or social event that you know will result in sleep deprivation the following morning. From a sense of wanting to feel included to straight up peer-pressure (even as adults), many of us have had an experience where we went to bed way too late after a night out and felt the horrible effects the next morning. Social events require energy. To fully enjoy a social outing with loved ones (or solo), you’ll need a good amount of energy. Truthfully, some people and their bodies prefer a cozy night in, binging their favorite show or catching up with a new, good book. Embracing our own unique interests and hobbies can not only increase the quality of our lives but can simultaneously give us a sense of relaxation. The plus side, having no need to hit snooze in the morning.

5.) Get rid of guilt

Don’t even try looking away, let’s talk about it! One of the most important steps to submerging ourselves into a restful state, is to feel that we deserve it in the first place. Many may feel guilty for taking a nap in the afternoon or opting out of a social setting that may have required too much energy from them at the moment. Energy is a precious currency and being able to "spend" it wisely (honoring ourselves and our limits) is a healthy and beautiful practice!

So…

Now that we’ve had this much needed talk, I think we have a better understanding as to how we can really take care of each other in 2022. We have dreams to fulfill, places to visit and uhm, a couple more massages to squeeze in for me-

What? Ahh, alright. I won’t push it. We are due for a massage though. Better schedule one before I give you a headache. Haha-

What?

Alright, alright. I’m done.

To tell you the truth though, self; I’m looking forward to a graceful and glorious new year with you. Here’s to taking care of ourselves and deepening our daily peace!