Why Rest Is Important: Embracing the Freedom of Labor Day
As we approach Labor Day, many of us are looking forward to a day off, a break from the daily grind. But have you ever paused to think about why this day of rest is so important?
Since its inception in 1882, Labor Day has upheld the need for balance between work and rest. Inspired by the labor activists of the late 19th century, this counter-cultural way of thinking produced new laws that made working conditions better for Americans, and we honor those who went before us by enjoying the rest they valiantly advocated for. And while the ways to celebrate Labor Day differ from person-to-person, its essence remains the same: cultivating rhythms of rest is essential to our well-being.
1882 isn’t the first time humanity was taught the value of rest. Since the dawn of creation, God has exemplified, and even commanded, the need for pausing work to rest in the truth that we receive everything we need from God Himself. While we receive God’s call to steward all He has given to us, we also rest to show how we are dependent on God for everything we need. But the real question is, when was the last time you truly allowed yourself to rest?Our team has a few words of encouragement to help you embrace the heart of rest behind Labor Day weekend.
If you need permission to take a break, or don’t know what feels restful:
It can be easy for us to get bogged down in the idea that self care can only be achieved through distant weekend retreats or dropping hundreds of dollars at the hip new spa downtown. The truth is, while rest doesn’t have to cost much financially, it does require the cost of a significant resource in our lives: time.
There’s no way around the fact that our primary non-renewable resource, time, is the biggest hindrance to our rest. A great place to start if you have a hard time giving yourself permission to rest is to spend time digging into any beliefs, fears, or misconceptions you have about your need for rest. Do you believe you’re worthy of that time? Do you worry about all the things you’re missing out on when you’re resting? It may be worth processing those thoughts in a journal or with a close friend.
We also recommend scheduling smaller increments of rest or self-care time in your calendar, then working your way up to include longer rhythms of rest in your everyday life. You can also think about the restful activities that are easily accessible to you—watch an episode of a TV show that you know makes you laugh, join our friends at SheReadsTruth.com and HeReadsTruth.com to read the Bible in community with others and be comforted by God’s Word, or leave the jogging shoes, art supplies, or any materials you need for your preferred rest method where you can see them so there’s a constant reminder to take up the rest you need.
If you’re someone who takes care of or leads others:
Remember that you’re going to be the best version of yourself when you take the time to rest. It’s easy to forgo what we need to take care of ourselves when that idea sounds selfish, or when it feels like it’s taking time from our loved ones and other responsibilities. But, the quality of the person showing up and being present with people is equally important to the amount of time you spend with them. Sometimes, the best way to show others how much you care is by giving yourself the rest you need to be a healthier you!
Your best advocate for your rest is YOU, but we’re happy to be a cheerleader on the sidelines pushing you to take some time for yourself! Whether you’re a Member or not, consider reaching out to our community if you need help, encouragement, support finding the freedom of rest in your own life.
