The Power of Rest: 6 Essential Tips for a Simpler, More Enjoyable Summer (And Life!)

In today's fast-paced world, our lives have become so busy that we find ourselves scheduling even moments of joy, relaxation, and time spent with family. The modern workplace has become a beast that demands instant results and leaves little room for creativity and breathing space. Has it gone too far? 

No matter one's perspective on modern society, the starting point for change must always be within oneself. And that's always where the magic happens. 

(Get to) know yourself truly and deeply

Self-awareness is a critical component of personal growth and development. By gaining a deeper understanding of oneself, it becomes possible to identify development areas and make meaningful changes. 

Knowing oneself means clearly understanding one's values, priorities, and goals. This clarity makes making decisions and actions aligned with one's vision and life's mission easier. While self-awareness is instrumental in recognising one's strengths and weaknesses, its significance extends beyond cognitive (mind) recognition. 

It is essential to embody this awareness and put it into action to make lasting changes in oneself. 

Last year, I embarked on studying Human Design and Gene Keys because they provide invaluable insights into understanding one's unique constitution (mind, body and soul). Give me a shout if you want to learn more.

Unlearn being busy = rest on your terms

While we've all heard about the importance of getting enough sleep and integrating rest into our lives, it's worth re-evaluating just how crucial it really is.

Scientific evidence supports the importance of rest and relaxation for physical and mental wellbeing. Rest can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, enhance sleep quality, reduce the risk of burnout, and boost immune function. We can massively improve our overall health and wellbeing by taking time to rest and recharge. 

When we look at this in reference to self-awareness, we have been conditioned to believe that staying busy is a sign of productivity and success. However, unlearning these ingrained habits and identifying what aligns with our unique design is crucial for personal growth and wellbeing. 

We must not compare our needs with others since we are as unique as our genes. So, just for a day or two, listen inwards, rest and relax when your body tells you to. 

Make mental notes on how those moments of rest made you feel.

Create a more peaceful and restful environment 

Where would you start if you wanted to feel more at peace and well-rested at home and/or work? You guessed it, by decluttering. 

Getting rid of clutter is a liberating experience that saves you much time. Personally, I no longer have to clean as frequently, and managing our home and my workspace is no longer a source of stress and overwhelm. 

Less clutter not only frees up space in your surroundings, it clears your mind and gradually transforms your life. Additionally, possessing fewer belongings has proven to be a significant money-saving measure in the long run. Research shows that less clutter at home also leads to better sleep quality. 

Although decluttering has many benefits, it's crucial to remember one thing: begin with baby steps and focus on making tiny changes that can gradually become new habits instead of adding to your existing workload.

Simplify your schedule

Prioritise scheduling time for yourself first and foremost. Setting aside a block of empty hours each day or week is crucial for getting into your creative flow.

Next, it's essential to re-evaluate and redesign your boundaries. Consider what is currently working and what isn't, identify sources of contentment and discontentment, and reflect (journal if that's your thing) on what changes would have the most significant impact on your daily life.

Finally, as a bonus task, conduct a time audit, breaking down your schedule into 10-minute increments to understand how you spend your time each day. You may be surprised to discover how much time certain activities consume, such as reading the news, checking emails, watching Netflix, or browsing social media.

The impact of technology on your ability to relax

As technology has become an increasingly large part of our lives, it can be challenging to disconnect and relax during the summer months. However, unplugging and immersing oneself in the great outdoors can have numerous benefits for our wellbeing.

Here are some of my top tips on how you can disconnect:

• Create a tech-free zone or space at home or your holiday spot, i.e., a dining area
• Designate timings for checking emails
• Turn off phone notifications
• Turn off the phone (for a chosen part of the day)
• Plan and schedule outdoor activities with friends and family
• Use apps to limit your screen time

Again, it's not about all or nothing, but even small steps can lead to significant changes (and happier relationships!).

Mindful eating and intentional selfcare 

Mindful (and slower) eating and intentional self-care can significantly impact your physical and mental health. By practising mindfulness when planning your meals and while eating, you can become more aware of your body's signals, leading to more balanced and intuitive eating habits. Not to mention eating as early as possible (easier said than done being on holidays..!) to aid our body with digestion. 

By now, most of us know that incorporating self-care practices into our daily routines can improve overall wellbeing and reduce stress. However, do you know what activities your body truly needs and enjoys? And finally, what makes your heart sing? 

Taking a nap, meditating, doing yoga, running, swimming or engaging in any physical exercise is not equally beneficial for every human body type. Taking time for hobbies and activities that bring our bodies joy is what matters. That, in turn, has a ripple effect on other parts of our bodies, regulating our nervous system and overall wellbeing. As women, we might want to pay attention to our cyclical needs, which hugely impact how we desire and feel the need to move. Cycle syncing is definitely something up and coming; watch out for more. 

Yay, you made it to the end! 

It's essential to discover your unique way of relaxing and disconnecting, regardless of what experts may suggest. Listen to your body; it always knows what's best for you.

Wishing you a joyful and rejuvenating rest of summer!

Helena Zachariassen is a mum of 2, an expert in simplifying and home organising, and a lover of all things beautiful in life. A certified KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach, she is the founder of Switzerland’s first KonMari and Lifestyle Coaching Consultancy - My Happy Home. She is passionate about empowering and inspiring people of any walk of life by organising their living spaces according to the KonMari Method by simply choosing joy.

Having her roots in Finland, the Nordic country of pure, quiet, and beautiful wilderness, and being deeply inspired by nature, beauty and simplicity, Helena lovingly encourages and supports her clients in transforming their homes into havens of serenity.