The Power of Rest: Why Your Soul Needs Stillness

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“One day,” you said to me, “I saw the sunset forty-four times!” And a little later you added: “You know - one loves the sunset, when one is so sad…” “Were you so sad, then?” I asked, “on the day of the forty-four sunsets?” But the little prince made no reply. ― Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince

In a world that never slows down, the concept of rest can feel foreign — even indulgent. But rest isn’t laziness. It’s necessary for your mind, body, and soul. Especially for those navigating mental health challenges, rest is an act of healing, reflection, and spiritual connection.

What Is Rest, Really?

Rest is more than just sleep. It’s emotional, mental, and spiritual restoration. It’s moments where you allow yourself to simply be — without striving, performing, or fixing.

  • Mental Rest: Stepping away from screens, multitasking, and overstimulation.
  • Emotional Rest: Letting go of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and inner criticism.
  • Spiritual Rest: Reconnecting with God through stillness, prayer, or simply breathing in His presence.

Why Rest Matters for Mental Health

Neglecting rest can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Rest helps your brain regulate stress, improves emotional resilience, and creates space for clarity and creativity.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

Practical Ways to Rest Your Soul

  1. Sabbath Rhythms: Set aside intentional time each week to rest and reflect. Turn off notifications, take a walk, or worship quietly.
  2. Silent Prayer or Meditation: Rest isn’t always sleep. Sitting in silence with God can be deeply restorative.
  3. Journaling Without Judgment: Let your thoughts flow freely. This helps release inner tension.
  4. Nature Time: God’s creation has a calming effect on our nervous system — go for a slow walk and breathe deeply.
  5. Digital Detox: Step away from screens. Rest your eyes, your scrolling thumb, and your overworked thoughts.

Biblical Reflections on Rest

God Himself rested on the seventh day — not because He needed to, but to model rest as holy.

  • Psalm 23:2-3, ESV – “He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul…”
  • Exodus 33:14, ESV – “…My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

These verses remind us that rest isn’t just permission — it’s a promise.

Final Thoughts

Rest doesn’t mean stepping back from life — it means stepping closer to yourself and to God. When you prioritize soul-level rest, you’re not falling behind; you’re returning to your center. In stillness, we remember who we are, and whose we are.

💛 If your soul is craving rest and realignment — whether through the healing space of therapy or the forward movement of coaching — I’m here to walk with you.

✨ Not sure which path fits your needs right now? Explore the difference between therapy and coaching to discover what kind of support might be right for you in this season.

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