There is something so restorative about rest. Rest is radical as f*ck. Angela Davis describes radical as "grasping something by the root." Rest is the ceasing of work or movement in order to relax, refresh oneself, or recover strength. To rest, radically means allowing yourself to fully recover your strength, and to be intentional about listening and caring for your body.
Did you know that Black and Brown girls and women stress at higher numbers than many of their non-Black or Brown male and female counterparts? Stress, which is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances, can affect the body in many different ways. Some of the ways stress can affect our bodies is by affecting our eating or sleeping habits. Living at the intersections of multiple identities whether thatās being Black, or female, or being disabled or having darker skin, stress impacts us all. While we as Black girls and women often prioritize everyone else, be sure to be intentional about prioritizing YOU.
Here are 10 ways to Rest, Radically:
Stillness
There are so many benefits of stillness, to include, increased creativity and focus, lowering blood pressure, increasing listening skills, and enhancing your self-awareness. Taking moments of stillness allows your mind to reset and your body to relax, which fosters a sense of peace and clarity. This peace or clarity can be achieved through meditation, quiet reflection, or simply sitting in silence.
Sleep
Did you know that quality sleep is essential for overall well-being? Sleep helps restore energy, improves mood, and supports cognitive function. Prioritizing a good sleep routine can significantly enhance your physical and mental health. Do you struggle to get good quality sleep? There are a few ways to help, such as sleep meditation videos, magnesium supplements, and decreasing screen time closer to bedtime.
Time Away
Being intentional about taking a step away from daily routines, work, or stressors provides a fresh perspective and a chance to recharge. It can be as simple as a day off or a more extended break to focus on self-care.
Saying "No"
One of my favorite things is implementing what I like to call, "The Big B, and the Big B is for BOUNDARIES." Setting boundaries by saying "no" allows you to prioritize your needs and avoid over-committing. Itās an essential practice for maintaining balance and protecting your time and energy.
Body Scan Meditation
This practice involves focusing on different parts of your body, checking in with how you feel, and releasing tension. Itās a powerful way to connect with your body and promote relaxation. There are so many free body scan videos on YouTube and even some on Apple Music, just type in "body scan meditation."
Solitude to Refuel
I'm an only child, and a self-proclaimed extraverted-introvert. I am very serious about having solitude to refuel. Spending time alone can be deeply restorative. It provides an opportunity to connect with yourself, reflect, and recharge without external pressures or distractions.
No Schedule
Now this one is something that I have not quite mastered yet, the art of "no schedule." I am a chronic planner, a lot of my admittedly sometimes excessive planning has everything to do with my own overthinking which then leads to anxiety. Allowing yourself days without a rigid schedule can reduce stress and increase your sense of freedom. Itās a chance to listen to your bodyās needs and flow with your energy levels.
Spending Time in Nature
You know when people say, "go touch some grass," well studies have actually shown that nature does in fact have a calming effect that helps reduce stress and improve mood. Whether it's a walk in the park, hiking, or simply sitting outside, nature can be a powerful tool for healing and restoration.
Breathing (Breath work is extremely restorative)
Conscious breathing techniques, like box breathing or alternate nostril breathing can calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and restore balance. Practices like deep breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, or structured breath work can be incredibly restorative. If you want to read more about breathing, check out our blog post, Black Girls Breathing.
Physically Caring for Your Body (movement, pampering, etc.)
Engaging in movement like yoga, stretching, or exercise, along with pampering activities such as a massage, skincare, or a warm bath, nurtures your body and enhances your sense of well-being. Small additions like a few drops of essential oils in your shower or bath also creates a spa like experience, at-home.
Who is Doing the Work
What are some ways that you rest?
Release
Eat / energize
Sleep / stretch
Time away
Get some rest! āØ
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