Cultivating Rhythms of Rest to Help Sustain You Throughout the Year » Christian Community Development Association

The year is quickly coming to an end. As calendars fill up with events and obligations, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Somehow, the to-do lists continue to grow as we slide rapidly into the holiday season. It can be tempting to feel as though you have to do more and more to keep up. But what if we chose a different way?

What if we finished out 2024 by prioritizing rest? What if we created opportunities to slow down, breathe deeply, and do that which nourishes us?

This may seem impossible to do this season with so many responsibilities, but it doesn’t have to be. Continue reading for ways to build intentional moments of rest into your schedule, even during the busiest time of the year.

1. Remember that Rest is Fundamental

Rest isn’t a reward that we earn, but is a foundation for all that we do. When we create regular rhythms of rest, it changes how we enter the different spaces that we occupy. We can be more present with those around us, our creativity can grow, our mental health can improve, and our hearts can be better protected from burning out.

How do you currently think about rest?

How would thinking about rest as foundational change how you navigate the day-to-day?

2. Understand Different Types of Rest

Did you know that there are different types of rest? Engaging in all of them can help you navigate even the busiest seasons.

Physical

Getting quality sleep is an important part of rest, but not all of it. Physically resting could include lying down or gentle movements like a leisurely walk or yoga.

Mental

Our brains are constantly taking in and processing information, so it’s important to give your mind a break. This could include taking short breaks during your work or doing hobbies that allow your mind to wander.

Emotional

We all experience emotions, and emotional rest is when we allow ourselves to express those emotions in a healthy way. This could include journaling and seeking support when you need it.

Spiritual

Cultivate regular rhythms of connecting with God through Scripture and prayer, and connect with a faith community that supports you.

Sensory

Our world is filled with screens, bright lights, and loud noises, which could lead to sensory overload. Engage in sensory rest by turning off electronic devices, dimming lights, and enjoying nature.

Creative

Creativity helps us problem-solve, make connections, and discover new ideas, and in the middle of busyness, our creative well can run dry. Recharge your creativity by experiencing beauty through art, music, or nature.

Social

Interacting with others is an important part of our lives, but it can also be draining. Social rest includes surrounding yourself with uplifting people who leave you feeling energized and revived.

Which type(s) of rest do you engage in regularly? What type(s) do you tend to neglect?

What type(s) of rest do you feel you need in this season?

3. Start Integrating Rest Into Your Routine

There’s no denying that the holiday season is busy. Let’s not wait until things slow down to begin creating rhythms of rest in our lives. Here are a few ideas for ways you can begin integrating rest into your daily routine.

Start each morning with quiet reflection, journaling, Scripture reading, or prayer.
Set aside an hour each day without screens, whether that’s time in nature, reading a book, or connecting with others.
- If you need to, block that time off in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone.
Make plans to connect with people who energize you; meet for a coffee, run errands together, or have a quick phone call.
Prioritize experiencing beauty through nature, art, or music.

How can you integrate different types of rest into your schedule this holiday season?

Rest is vital to our wellbeing, mental health, relationships, and the work we do. We don’t have to wait until we are burned out to rest, but we can make it a regular part of our lives.