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Wellness

Why Resting Is Just as Important as Hustling

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Hello, my beautiful sisters.

I see you out here grinding, pushing, and striving for greatness.

You’ve got dreams in your heart and goals in your sights, and you’re determined to make it happen. But let me ask you this—when was the last time you rested?

Not just sat down for a second, but truly rested your body, your mind, and your spirit?

I know we live in a world that glorifies the hustle, the late nights, and the non-stop grind.

But let’s pause for a moment and ask ourselves: What is the cost of all this pushing? Is it your health? Your happiness? Your peace of mind?


The Guilt That Comes with Taking a Break

Sisters, I get it.

Resting can feel like a luxury you can’t afford.

Maybe you feel guilty taking time off because you have so many responsibilities pulling at you from all directions.

Or maybe you’ve internalized the idea that rest equals laziness, and that if you’re not hustling 24/7, you’re somehow failing.

But the truth is, rest is not a sign of weakness. It’s a tool of strength.

Without it, burnout looms, creativity stalls, and your body and mind start to break down. Hustling without resting is like driving a car without ever refueling—it’s only a matter of time before you run out of gas.


The Science of Rest

Did you know that rest is not just “doing nothing”?

Rest has a profound impact on your brain and body. Studies show that sleep improves memory, sharpens focus, and even enhances decision-making skills.

Taking breaks during the day can help reduce stress hormones like cortisol and boost productivity when you return to your tasks.

And let’s talk about creativity for a second.

Have you ever noticed that your best ideas come when you’re relaxed, like in the shower or on a walk?

That’s because rest activates the default mode network in your brain—a space where creativity flourishes.


Practical Steps to Rest with Purpose

Now, let’s talk about how you can incorporate meaningful rest into your life without feeling guilty.

  1. Schedule Rest Like an Appointment
    Treat rest as a non-negotiable part of your routine. Block out time on your calendar for rest just like you would for a meeting or a workout. Whether it’s a 15-minute midday pause or a full evening off, honor that time for yourself.
  2. Redefine What Rest Means
    Rest isn’t just about sleeping or lounging. It’s about doing things that restore you. For some, it’s a bubble bath or meditation. For others, it’s journaling, cooking a favorite meal, or even watching a feel-good show. Find what fills your cup and make space for it.
  3. Set Boundaries Around Work and Hustle
    Learn to say no to things that drain you unnecessarily. Protect your rest time by creating clear boundaries between work and personal time. Turn off work emails after hours or commit to unplugging from social media during your downtime.
  4. Practice Restorative Activities
    Activities like yoga, deep breathing, or a nature walk can help you rest while still moving your body. These practices calm your nervous system and rejuvenate your spirit.
  5. Start Small and Build the Habit
    If resting feels foreign to you, start with just five minutes a day. Gradually increase the time as you get used to slowing down. Remember, rest is a muscle—it gets stronger with practice.

Here’s Some Encouragement

Sisters, I want you to know that rest is your right, not a reward you have to earn.

It’s part of the cycle of growth and success.

When you rest, you’re not stepping away from your goals—you’re preparing yourself to tackle them with more clarity, energy, and passion.


Uplifting Call to Action

So, this week, I challenge you to reclaim your rest.

Pick one way to incorporate rest into your life, even if it’s just sitting quietly with a cup of tea for five minutes. Allow yourself to feel the power of pausing.

Because, my beautiful sisters, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Rest is the fuel that will carry you toward the life you’re building.

Let me know in the comments: What’s one way you plan to honor your need for rest this week? I can’t wait to hear your ideas.

Until next time, take care of yourselves—you deserve it. ✨

Author

  • Shelia Huggins Photo for Black Girl Heal Blog

    Shelia Huggins is a 20+ year attorney who has helped clients with their business and personal legal challenges. She blogs at Black Girl Heal to provide insight and practical strategies for those seeking to heal the struggles of their wallets, mindsets, and lives. Known as "Ms Legalista" on YouTube, she is passionate about helping people find their path and achieve the personal success they've been looking for.

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