The importance of rest in a fast-paced society

This autumn, I began a new position as a project manager, splitting my time between Geðhjálp and Bataskóli Íslands, which offers adult education focusing on mental health topics.

Although I am highly passionate about my work, the commencement of the recovery college in September brought about a significant amount of stress for me. This stress was evident in my fatigue and overall unwellness after each workday. I am increasingly realizing the detrimental effects of being in a body accustomed to constant stress on my health.

Although I don't feel like I'm consciously worrying, my body experiences stress when confronted with all the tasks I need to accomplish, even though they are just routine aspects of daily life that everyone handles. I'm not encountering a life-threatening lion, but I must remain vigilant about tasks, emails, and everyday responsibilities.

In today's society, stress levels are high due to the fast pace and the expectation that we must work hard to prove our worth. Merely succeeding in one aspect of life is insufficient; we are pressured to excel in all areas, including career, family, social relationships, hobbies, and physical fitness.

Nevertheless, the body and mind require rest to repair themselves. Working continuously is not sustainable; the system breaks down when we fail to take breaks between tasks. Studies indicate that taking a nap during the day, if possible, is beneficial; it does not indicate laziness.

I have been considering whether stress might cause my digestive issues. The continuous state of fight-or-flight mode can lead the body to shut down certain functions, like digestion, to be more prepared for a potential threat, resulting in inadequate time for proper digestion.

Thus, it is essential to establish a regular schedule that includes time for rest to offset the pressures of daily life. Various activities can help soothe the nervous system, including meditation, breathing exercises, massages or energy healing, and light physical workouts.

Thankfully, many individuals have come to understand the significance of relaxation, and movements promoting slowness have emerged in recent years as a response to our fast-paced society. There is nothing more precious than allowing oneself to be still in silence. It's astonishing how simply relaxing can trigger a process, both mentally and physically.

It can be challenging for numerous individuals as certain emotions may linger within a person even when undisturbed. This could explain why some individuals intentionally refrain from taking breaks and unwinding, ultimately exacerbating existing issues and potentially leading to future complications.

It is advisable to prioritize self-care rather than wait for issues to escalate. I am exploring various methods to enhance my well-being, including simple practices like eating slowly and chewing food properly. While I have cut down on caffeine intake recently, I find that it aids in maintaining my energy levels throughout the day, allowing me to manage stress more effectively.

There are still many things for me to learn, and I am interested in different courses, including those on the lymphatic, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, I am eager to explore breathwork and enhance my understanding of proper breathing techniques. Thankfully, abundant resources are available to promote tranquillity and relaxation for those who put in the effort.