Listening to Your Body: Rest Days and Why They’re Non-Negotiable

Insights on the importance of rest, recovery, and listening to your body’s signals.

As someone who loves going at a million miles per hour; especially with a toddler, a side business, and all the responsibilities that come with it - I had to learn the hard way how important rest is. Between managing my fitness routine, working, and keeping up with family life, I often found myself pushing through fatigue. I thought skipping rest days would help me stay on track, but I quickly realized that rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. My husband is great at reminding me to slow down, because, let’s face it, we all sometimes need an external source to tell us when it’s time to recharge.

1. Promotes Recovery

Rest is essential for muscle recovery and preventing injury. Whether you're lifting weights, running, or simply staying active, your body needs time to repair and rebuild. I’ve learned that taking a day off from exercise isn’t a setback; it’s a step forward. It’s the key to coming back stronger and more energized. During the holidays, when stress levels can spike, giving yourself permission to rest ensures you’ll stay strong and avoid burnout.

2. Supports Mental Health

Rest isn’t just about physical recovery; it’s also about mental well-being. The holidays, in particular, can be a stressful time, and constantly going at full speed can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Rest allows your mind to reset, reduce stress, and recharge. By giving yourself the mental space to recover, you can stay focused and be present with your loved ones, without the weight of exhaustion dragging you down.

3. Listening to Your Body’s Signals

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of listening to my body. If I’m feeling fatigued, sore, or mentally drained, I now recognize those signals as a sign to take a step back. Rest days are a chance to reset, recover, and come back stronger. When you ignore those signals, you risk injury, burnout, and feeling stuck. By listening to my body, I’ve been able to better balance my workouts, family life, and business responsibilities.

4. Preventing Burnout

The pressure to stay active and productive, especially around the holidays, can feel overwhelming. I’ve been guilty of pushing through, thinking I can handle it all. But I’ve learned that consistently ignoring rest can lead to burnout. Incorporating rest days into my routine allows me to manage stress better, stay energized, and prevent mental and physical exhaustion. When you take the time to rest, you’re not falling behind; you’re setting yourself up for long-term success.

Conclusion: Rest is Essential, Not Optional

I’ve learned that rest is a game-changer. It’s not just about taking a break; it’s about ensuring that I can continue to show up for my family, my business, and my own fitness goals. So this holiday season, and beyond, make rest a priority. Listen to your body’s signals, give yourself the space to recharge, and you’ll come back stronger, healthier, and more energized.

Remember, rest isn’t a setback; it’s an essential part of the journey.