Rest

I know we are in a mini-post series.  I promise this post is a quick read, though I have selected multiple pictures to convey the theme.  Thanks for hanging in there with me. :)

Rest.  What do you envision when you hear that word?  A lot of individuals think of naps or other times of actual sleep.  However, I have learned rest takes many form, each unique to the person participating.  For me, a day of chores at home sounds relaxing.  My sister would rather hang out with friends, watching a movie and going out for ice cream.  My parents enjoy time together watching football or playing board games.  

So today I bring you several things which feel restful to me.  This is not an exhaustive list; rather, it paints a general idea of rest beyond sleep.  I encourage you to think about what rest looks like for you after reading this post.  Then, don't leave those thoughts in your head.  Put it into practice!  Make time daily to do at least on restful activity.  You'll thank yourself later.

Sleep, of course.  Dozing off in the warm sun or burrowing under my blankets on a cold night is extremely refreshing.

Laughter.  Nothing fills my soul more than giggling until my sides hurt.  

Playing with others outside.  Yes, I am still a kid at heart who enjoys sports, walks and photo shoots... all of which are better when done outdoors!

Time in nature.  Nature possesses a purity, tranquility and sacredness which never fails to calm my soul.

Asking for help.  Let someone take a chunk of your burden for a little while.  No one is capable of holding everything all the time.

Reading classics, mysteries, historical adventures... anything which whisks me out of this world and into a different one.

Focusing on what's truly important.  I enjoy reflecting on my values, spending quality time with people I love, and taking a moment to listen to the birds sing or wind rustle through the tree.

Getting a new perspective through giving thanks for the little blessings in the day.

Letting things be what they are without fighting them.  At times, I can only do this for a few minutes or and hour.  But even that slot of time allows me to stop fighting reality and rest.