Take a Break

Writing about rest and relaxation

Since we wrote about movement last week, this week we’ll focus on rest and relaxation. Whether we consider rest to be a necessity or an afterthought, many scientists, health care professionals, and researchers confirm that resting is an important component of maintaining good health. Rest can take many different forms: reading, napping, meditation, listening to music or a podcast. The same holds true for relaxation, as some people may find a walk to be relaxing, while others may relax with a cup of hot tea and a book.

Back of person seated with feet up on railing and large coconut with straw on table. Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash

This week, I invite you to write about rest and relaxation. You may decide to write a scene or character study, a personal essay, or a poem.

Some ideas to get you started:

• What is your ideal way to rest and relax?

• Do you find it easy or difficult to do absolutely nothing?

• Have your favorite methods for relaxation changed with time? If so, what worked well for you?

• What sensory experiences do you associate with rest and relaxation? For example, does a certain scent or sound help you relax? Do you find a specific taste or tactile object to put you in a restful state?

• How has taking time to rest helped you live your best life?

Legs and feet in hammock with brown dog staring at camera. Photo by Drew Coffman on Unsplash

Recommendation: set a timer for 25 minutes and see what comes up. You can write by hand or type it out—whatever writing method works for you.

Have fun writing!