Your body is always talking to you – all you have to do is stop and listen. When we’re busy and tired, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of doing too much and carrying on despite signals that we need a break. This is your gentle reminder of the strength and need to slow down.
An important part of JSHealth’s wellness philosophy is rest! It is important for our physical, mental and emotional well-being. It is the time for us to re-energize and restart to help maintain balance of body and mind. When we rest, we are physically and emotionally able to reconnect with ourselves, find clarity, and gain energy. When we have more energy, we are better equipped to face and live our days (and our nights!). The healthy life.
While sleep is an important part of rest, it encompasses more than just the hours we close our eyes. It’s about allowing yourself to slow down, check in, and create moments of stillness in your life. When I give myself permission to pause, I can reconnect more deeply with myself, let go of the need to be constantly doing something, and let body love and kindness guide me.
Here are some of my top tips for relaxation.
Take care of your digestive system
A large part of your health is related to your gut. Poor digestion has a knock-on effect on the rest of your body. When you eat when you’re stressed or distracted, it can negatively impact your gut’s ability to break down and process the nutrients you put into it. That’s why I recommend you make mealtimes a moment of self-care in your busy day. Avoid eating while you work or watch TV, put your phone away, breathe deeply before you start, and chew each bite well. As you eat, be mindful and grateful. Notice the flavors, textures, and aromas. Be thankful that you can enjoy this food that nourishes your precious body.
Perform small rituals throughout the day
Sometimes it really is the little things (done consistently) that make the big things! As you transition from morning to evening, incorporate your own wellness rituals that will leave you feeling relaxed. This can mean sipping a cup of herbal tea, meditating in silence for five minutes, or taking time out to do some quick stretches. These simple self-care activities will help regulate your nervous system, keep you grounded, and allow you to regain balance and find your center.
Prioritize good sleep
We all know how great we feel after a good night’s sleep: energized, refreshed, clear and ready for the day. Good sleep accelerates healing; It is the body’s time to rest, repair and restore.
Aim for a consistent bedtime every night and establish a nightly routine full of delicious, sleep-inducing rituals. About an hour before bedtime, dim the lights, put lavender oil on the pillows, and light a candle or burn essential oils. Put a notepad on your bedside table and jot down all the annoying thoughts that come to your mind while relaxing. Remove computers and distractions to make the room a tech-free zone and keep the room temperature comfortable. Ideally, your bedroom should be dark and cool.
I also love putting my legs against the wall for 10 minutes while taking deep breaths – it’s incredibly peaceful and soothing before bed!
Try restorative exercise
Consciously moving your body in ways that bring you joy and connection can be a form of active recreation. Restorative yoga, or “yoga nidra,” can work wonders by relaxing the mind and slowing the endless flow of thoughts. It is also about releasing physical and emotional tension, stress or stagnant energy.
For me personally, resting and prioritizing my sleep has really changed my life. If you haven’t already, it’s time to prioritize calm and let go of the myth that you have to work 24/7 to be successful. By taking care of yourself and replenishing your energy, you lay a solid foundation for a happier, kinder, more fulfilling, balanced life.
i love jess x