brooklynsfate

Rest is important. It is also something that most people I know, struggle to do. Whether it’s finding time, or fighting the urge to constantly be productive, or about a million other things, I think people don’t rest enough. Our society is designed to measure our worth in output. In results. So carving out time in our lives day to day to essentially do nothing, feels almost impossible.

Once you do finally find the time, what even are you supposed to do? I personally always start with some sort of reset. Like a shower, or a bubble bath if it’s been a hard week. Then, throw on a pair of comfy pjs or a fun outfit, whatever makes you feel good. Now you must decide on an activity, this depends on your energy level. You can watch a movie or a tv show of course. You could also settle down with a book. What’s better though, in my opinion, is doing something. What’s hard though is finding something to do where you’re not placing any expectation on the outcome. Doing something just for fun and not to enhance a skill or result in a final product. For me this is usually things like coloring or doodling. They’re the easiest things to do with no restraint I think. It still takes time though to not care about the outcome. Other things you can do are paint, or draw, play music, or partake in a sport of some sort. Just for fun though. If you care too much about how good you’re doing –or aren’t doing– it won’t be restful. It takes a lot of practice to not care, for me at least, I’m still learning.

I’ve been having a lot of conversations with friends lately about how important play is. Playing, like when you were a kid. Hard to do now without feeling a little ridiculous sometimes. But it’s really important, it helps reduce stress levels and rework those creativity muscles in your brain. Plus, if you’re feeling less stressed, it’s much easier to sit down and relax.

I personally have been pretty stressed out lately, so I’ve been trying to focus on play and rest. I’m so tired but I’m doing my best. I’m sure you are too. Even if your best today doesn’t look like your best yesterday.

The picture at the top of this post is from when I was drawing and coloring the other day. It came out better than I thought it would. Good luck with your rest and play this week!