Rest as Revolution: How Deep Rest Can Transform Healing

02 Jan Rest as Revolution: How Deep Rest Can Transform Healing

For go-getters, planners, and perfectionists, rest often feels counterproductive or even challenging. Many clients managing chronic illnesses or mental health challenges tell me, ‘Relaxing doesn’t feel relaxing,’ or, ‘I don’t know how to relax.’ In our fast-paced Western culture, rest is undervalued and rarely taught. Often, people become good at rest only after experiencing burnout or chronic stress, learning through necessity rather than guidance.

But what if deep rest is not the enemy of progress, but rather a powerful catalyst for healing and growth? Especially for those managing chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, or chronic pain, rest can feel revolutionary.

What is Deep Rest?

Deep rest is a state of profound psychological and physiological rejuvenation, offering benefits for overall health and well-being. It goes beyond ordinary relaxation, offering benefits such as:

• Stress relief: Reduces the negative impacts of stress.
• Nervous system balance: Restores equilibrium in the body.
• Enhanced emotional well-being: Cultivates a sense of peace and calm.
• Improved physical health: Lowers blood pressure and regulates hormone levels.
• Boosted creativity and productivity: Encourages fresh ideas and solutions.

Unlike sleep, deep rest is a mindfulness practice of stillness and awareness. Some even suggest the word “depressed” can be interpreted as “deep rest,” signifying the body’s need to pause and reset.

The Importance of Deep Rest in Healing

Rest might feel counterintuitive, especially for those managing mental health challenges or chronic conditions, in a world that glorifies constant action. Yet, true healing requires a balance between activity and recuperation. Deep rest provides an essential foundation for self-healing by:

• Anchoring the mind and body in the present moment.
• Empowering individuals to face life’s challenges with renewed strength.

Consider Jessica, a client diagnosed with endometriosis and chronic fatigue, who had struggled with the intensity of her symptoms for years before discovering the healing power of deep rest. Her relentless pursuit of treatments and self-care routines only worsened her symptoms. It wasn’t until she embraced rest that her healing began. Through therapy, Jessica learned to release control and welcome stillness into her life. The guilt of “doing nothing” gave way to newfound clarity and strength.

Why Rest Feels Revolutionary

For overachievers, rest can feel like surrendering control. But resting is not passive—it’s an act of courage and self-compassion. By embracing rest and prioritizing mental health, you:

• Reduce overwhelm: Calm the nervous system and escape fight-or-flight mode.
• Expand creativity: Open your mind to new ideas and insights.
• Foster self-worth: Affirm your value beyond productivity.

How to Practice Rest as a Healing Ritual

Ready to integrate deep rest into your routine? Start with these simple steps:

1. Begin small: Commit to just a few minutes of intentional rest daily.
2. Release guilt: Reframe rest as essential, not indulgent.
3. Set boundaries: Say no to draining activities and yes to self-care.
4. Create rituals: Practice meditation, gentle stretching, or stillness.

Rest as a Tool for Growth

For planners and perfectionists, rest can offer a new sense of control—one grounded in trust rather than force. As Sylvia Boorstein wisely said: “Don’t just do something, sit there.” Deep rest isn’t about giving up; it’s about stepping into a nourished, empowered version of yourself.

By viewing rest as a revolutionary act, you’re declaring that your health and well-being matter more than endless to-do lists. 

Give yourself permission to pause. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.

If you are struggling with releasing control and inviting rest into your life as a practice, consider speaking to someone who can help you optimize your self-care. Seeking support can help you to create sustainable habits that honor your mental and physical health and allow you to thrive.