Reclaiming Rest: Why We Resist It and How to Welcome It

Rest is something we all need—but for many of us, it’s hard to allow. We keep going, pushing, striving. We tell ourselves we’ll rest later, when the to-do list is done or when the world slows down. But here’s the truth: rest isn’t a reward—it’s a requirement.

In this post, we’ll explore why rest feels so hard, how to shift your relationship with it, and some gentle, natural ways to rest that you can start today.

Why Do We Resist Rest?

Many of us were raised to believe that doing more means being better. Productivity became the goal, and slowing down became something to feel guilty about.

You may resist rest because:

• You don’t feel like you’ve “earned” it

• You’re afraid things will fall apart if you stop

• You’ve forgotten what real rest feels like

But rest doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Rest is anything that helps your body and mind reset—without needing to perform or produce.

What Rest Really Looks Like

True rest isn’t just sleep. It can be:

• Lying down with a warm compress and breathing slowly

• Diffusing calming essential oils while reading

• Journaling with a cup of tea before bed

• Taking a walk without your phone

• Sitting still in the morning light with your eyes closed

These are all natural ways to rest—and they don’t require a vacation or a significant life change.

How to Welcome Rest (Without Guilt)

If you’ve been on “go” for a long time, rest might feel unfamiliar. That’s okay. Here are three gentle ways to welcome it:

1. Give It a Time and Place

Even five minutes of stillness can shift your whole day. Set a small window—before bed, after lunch, or right after waking. Protect it like you would an appointment.

2. Use Your Senses

Touch, scent, sound—these all help calm your nervous system. Try using a calming massage oil like Dreamweaver or diffuse lavender while you stretch or journal.

3. Practice Saying Yes to Yourself

You don’t need to earn rest. You are allowed to pause, even if the list isn’t done. Especially if it isn’t.

Suggested Ritual: Evening Reset

Try this simple evening ritual tonight:

• Brew a calming tea by combining one teaspoon of chamomile and 1/2 teaspoon of tulsi, and steep.  Need a bit more convenience?

• Sit or lie down with your eyes closed, breathe in for 4 counts, out for 6, repeat for 5 minutes.

• Take a warm bath with salts and essential oils.

Let this be your gentle return to yourself.

Final Thought

Rest isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength. When you give yourself rest, you create space for clarity, healing, and peace to return that not only benefits you but all your relationships too.

You don’t have to wait for permission. You already have it.

Explore Natural Ways to Rest

• → Shop Restorative Blends

• → Read More Aromatic Wisdom Posts

• → Visit Us on Saturdays at the Greensboro Farmers Market

Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or health condition. The use of essential oils and natural remedies mentioned herein should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare practitioner, such as a physician, aromatherapist, or other experts in integrative medicine, before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering the use of essential oils for children. Always perform a patch test for allergic reactions before applying essential oils topically, and follow safe usage guidelines. Your health and wellness are important to us, and making informed decisions with professional guidance is paramount.