It wasn’t until two weeks after I ran my first half marathon that I was hit with an overwhelming wave of fatigue. It wasn’t just the typical tiredness you feel after pushing your body physically—it was extreme. Even walking for 20 minutes felt like a monumental effort, and I would find myself crashing on the sofa, unable to keep my eyes open. Waking up tired, getting through a few hours of work, and then needing to rest again—it was like a constant cycle that I couldn’t break. This wasn’t me.
I’ve always been the type to power through the day with good energy, usually feeling sustained, even during busy periods. So, I started to worry. What was happening to me? Was something wrong?
It was in those moments, when my body refused to cooperate with my usual pace, that I realised something essential: I needed rest. And not just any rest, but proper rest—the kind where I didn’t criticize myself for needing it, the kind where I could fully accept the present moment for what it was.
I had to slow down.
The Struggle to Accept the Need for Rest
I’m sure many of you can relate to the feeling of guilt that comes with resting. Our society often glorifies productivity, pushing us to always do more, achieve more, and keep going—no matter what. For me, slowing down felt almost like failure. I had to cancel plans, reduce my workload, and let go of the pressure to be constantly “on.”
But it wasn’t just about the physical tiredness. I also realized that as an introvert and a highly sensitive person (HSP), I needed quiet time and solitude to recharge—especially after being around lots of people or in noisy environments. Today’s world, with its constant stream of information and stimulation, can overwhelm our senses. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget that our minds and bodies need time to process, rest, and recover.
Slowing Down Is Not Laziness
Here’s the important lesson I learned: Slowing down is not laziness. In fact, it’s one of the most productive things we can do for our long-term well-being.
I’ve always been someone who works hard and pushes myself. But I’ve also realized that if I don’t honor my need for rest, I can’t show up as my best self for anything. Whether it’s work, relationships, or creative projects, the quality of my presence is much more important than the quantity of hours I spend “doing.”
Why Rest Is Essential
Our bodies and minds are not designed to run on empty, and yet we’re often expected to perform at peak capacity day after day. This constant pressure to be “on” can lead to burnout, stress, and even physical illness. Slowing down doesn’t just allow for rest; it also fosters reflection, creativity, and emotional resilience.
For people like me, who are introverts or highly sensitive, the need for rest is even more pronounced. We can easily become overwhelmed by overstimulation, and without intentional downtime, it’s harder to function at our best. But the key is understanding that rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for maintaining balance and mental health.
Embracing the Pause
As I learned from my own experience, taking time to rest isn’t about being “lazy” or “unproductive.” It’s about embracing the natural rhythms of the body and honoring the times when we need to pause, recharge, and listen to what we truly need.
So, if you’re feeling worn out, depleted, or just in need of a break, give yourself permission to slow down. Trust that rest is not a sign of weakness, but a vital part of your overall well-being. It’s okay to step back, breathe, and let your body and mind restore themselves.
In fact, it may be the most productive thing you can do for yourself right now.
Final Thoughts
We’re all so accustomed to a fast-paced, always-on world, but there’s wisdom in slowing down. Whether you’re an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, we all need to honour our own rhythms. Taking time for rest isn’t indulgence; it’s a practice of self-care and resilience. So next time you feel like you’re running on empty, remember: slowing down might just be the key to moving forward.
Activities to Help You Slow Down
The key is to find activities that allow you to reconnect with yourself and give your mind and body the space to rest and recharge. Here are five activities that can help you slow down, relax, and cultivate a sense of peace in your everyday life:
1. Mindful Breathing or Meditation
Sometimes the simplest things are the most effective. Take five to ten minutes each day to practice mindful breathing or meditation. Focus on your breath, notice the sensations in your body, and let go of any thoughts that arise. This practice helps center your mind and activate your body’s relaxation response. It’s a great way to slow down when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
2. Take a Nature Walk
Walking in nature is one of the most grounding and rejuvenating activities. Whether it’s a walk through the park, along a beach, or in the woods, spending time outdoors allows you to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with the natural world. The rhythmic motion of walking can also be meditative, helping you clear your mind while giving your body the gentle movement it needs to relax.
3. Journaling or Free Writing
Writing can be a powerful tool for slowing down your thoughts and processing emotions. Journaling allows you to reflect on your day, express your feelings, and gain clarity on any areas of stress or overwhelm. If you don’t know where to start, try writing down three things you’re grateful for, or just let your thoughts flow freely onto the page for a few minutes.
4. Unplug for an Hour (or More)
We live in a world that’s constantly connected. Phones, social media, and work emails can all create a sense of urgency and busyness that doesn’t allow for true rest. Take an hour—or even a full day—to unplug from digital devices. Spend the time doing something that nurtures your mind or body, whether it’s reading, cooking, or just sitting in silence. The goal is to give your senses a break and reduce the constant stimulation.
5. Do Gentle Yoga or Stretching
Yoga is an excellent practice for slowing down both the body and the mind. Opt for a gentle, restorative class or a short stretching routine at home to release tension and calm your nervous system. Poses like child’s pose, forward folds, and legs up the wall are all soothing and grounding. Even just five minutes of focused stretching can help you feel more present in your body and relaxed in your mind.
Slowing down doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. These simple activities can be done in as little as ten minutes, but they provide a powerful opportunity to reset and recharge. Remember, rest and relaxation are essential for long-term health and productivity. By incorporating some of these practices into your routine, you can create more space in your day to slow down, reflect, and truly honor what your body and mind need.
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