Hi
Last Sunday, I had planned a long walk and a lower body training session. I woke up early, ready to tackle the day, but something was off. I've not been sleeping well and having missed a night’s sleep coming back from holiday, I was already feeling the strain. We missed our connecting flight due to delays, arriving home a day late, which threw my schedule and
rest off balance. Adding to that, a busy week at work with clients, teaching classes, handling admin tasks, social media and class planning left me utterly exhausted.
Throughout the day, I felt dizzy and light-headed, my body signalling it was running on empty. Despite my plans, I knew I needed to listen to what my body was telling me: it was time to rest. Instead of pushing through with my workout, I decided to take a step back. I sat in the sun in my garden and read an
entire book - a rare indulgence for me. It was just what I needed.
I rarely sit and relax, there’s always something to do. But Sunday, I realised how crucial it is to give myself permission to do nothing. It’s okay to listen to your body and allow yourself to recharge. Rest is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. By taking the day off, I prevented further exhaustion and set myself up to enter the new week feeling more rested and energetic. This, in turn, means I can better coach my
clients, teach my classes and enjoy my own workouts and walks.
Rest and recharge are essential components of a healthy lifestyle, especially for those of us who are constantly on the go. Yet, so many of us feel guilty when we’re not actively doing something. This is a mindset I’m actively trying to change. It’s important to remember that rest is productive. It rejuvenates our minds and bodies, preparing us to face our responsibilities with renewed
vigour
Sunday’s decision to rest wasn’t just about avoiding burnout, it was about embracing the importance of self-care. By acknowledging my limits and respecting my need for downtime, I’ve given myself the gift of energy and well-being. As I move forward, I hope to carry this lesson with me, knowing that taking time to rest is a vital part of staying healthy, both physically and mentally.
So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, remember: it's
okay to pause. Listen to your body, give it the rest it needs and don’t feel guilty about it. In doing so, you’re not only caring for yourself but also ensuring that you can continue to give your best to everything you do.
Have an amazing day.
Love Nicki x
