How to Love Yourself: Take Time to Rest

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We live in a society that is so driven by a hustle mentality—thinking that we’ll get further ahead if we just work harder. But the problem with that mindset is that it often leads to burnout or even serious health issues.

We can become so overwhelmed by our relationships, jobs, health, finances, and countless other responsibilities that we forget to take time to rest. When we stop caring for ourselves, we stop showing ourselves the love we need. Even worse, we sometimes hide behind those responsibilities to avoid confronting the reality that we aren’t loving ourselves well.

Why Is Rest Important?

Ask any physician, and they’ll tell you that rest is essential to your well-being. Your body requires rest to rebuild and recharge. When you don’t take time to rest, you increase your risk for headaches, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, lowered immunity, chronic pain, and other serious conditions. Your body was not created to live in constant stress.

But when you intentionally take time to rest, you’ll begin to notice positive changes in your physical and mental health. You’ll feel less stress, enjoy a better mood, gain mental clarity, spark creativity, boost productivity, and even strengthen your relationships.

Think about this: If you were in a beautiful garden, would you be able to enjoy it by running through it? Probably not. But if you slowed your pace, paused, and really observed your surroundings, your experience would be far more meaningful. You’d see the unique details of each flower, smell the fragrances, and feel the textures. That same principle applies to life. When you take time to rest, you gain more from your experiences—and more peace.

Rest Fuels Creativity

You might be surprised to learn that rest actually increases creativity. When you allow your mind to pause, you create space for new ideas and insights. It’s hard to be creative when your brain is clouded with a never-ending to-do list. But when you take time to rest, you make room for inspiration to flow freely.

Rest Improves Productivity

Another powerful benefit of rest is improved productivity. A tired brain is a sluggish brain. Think about your own schedule: When are you most productive? Is it after a restful night’s sleep or a refreshing break? If you’re feeling sluggish after long meetings or at the end of a busy day, it’s time to build moments of rest into your routine. When you take time to rest, you’re more energized for the tasks ahead.

Rest Builds Healthier Relationships

Rest also improves your connections with others. When you’re constantly rushing from one obligation to the next, it’s hard to give your friends and family the time and attention they deserve. But when you take time to rest, you can be fully present in your relationships. You’re not distracted or irritable—you’re engaged, attentive, and able to build deeper bonds.

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What Does God Say About Rest?

From the beginning of creation, God showed us the importance of rest. He created everything in six days—and then He rested.

Genesis 2:2-3 (AMP): “And by the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested (ceased) on the seventh day from all His work which He had done… because in it He rested from all His work which He had created and done.”

God also reinforced this through the Ten Commandments:

Exodus 20:8-11 (AMP): “Remember the Sabbath (seventh) day to keep it holy… the seventh day is a Sabbath [a day of rest dedicated] to the Lord your God… That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy…”

When you take time to rest, you’re not just practicing self-care—you’re walking in obedience. You’re honoring the pattern God established and allowing your soul space to connect with Him.

If you’re lacking peace in your life, ask yourself: Are you allowing yourself to rest? Release any guilt you may feel. Guilt about rest is not from God. He commands you to rest—and He blesses those who obey.

Ways to Take Time to Rest

Rest can be both active and passive. Active rest includes movement that refreshes the body, while passive rest includes stillness that renews the mind and spirit.

Here are some practical ways to take time to rest:

Active Rest:

• Go for a walk or hike – Refresh your mind outdoors.
• Workout – Choose something you enjoy and move your body.
• Dance – Let loose and have fun!
• Ride a bike – A scenic ride can calm the mind.
• Visit a park – Reconnect with childlike joy.
• Swim – Whether leisurely or intense, it’s both restful and energizing.
• Cook or bake – Therapeutic for many; creative and satisfying.

Passive Rest:

• Prayer – Have a heartfelt conversation with God.
• Worship – Reflect and express gratitude.
• Take a bath – Add candles and music for a spa-like experience.
• Live debt-free – Reduce stress by practicing financial stewardship.
• Set boundaries – Guard your peace by limiting access to toxic influences.
• Use Do Not Disturb mode – Silence your phone for focused rest.
• Take a day off – A mental health day can reset your spirit.
• Have a picnic – Simple, joyful, and restorative.
• Read a book – Fiction or nonfiction, reading can be a restful escape.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to earn your rest—you already deserve it. Rest is not laziness. It is wisdom. It is worship. It is love.

Make rest a regular, intentional part of your life. Take time to rest, not only for your health, but for your soul. When you do, you’ll be amazed at how much more peaceful, productive, and purpose-filled your life becomes.

What’s one way you can take time to rest this week?
Is it easy or difficult for you to prioritize rest in your schedule? What changes can you make today to give yourself the rest your body and spirit truly need?