As we close out this wellness series and step into the holiday season, here’s perhaps the most important health focus of all: rest. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your health is simply to pause. We’ve explored a lot together this year–sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management, and so many other foundational wellness pillars. You might be feeling energized to make changes at the end of the year–or you might feel exhausted just thinking about it. Both reactions are completely valid, and both point to the same truth: rest is not the opposite of progress; it’s actually an essential component.
Every holiday season offers us a natural invitation to step back and reflect on the year. However, in the hustle and bustle of the season, we often forget to actually allow ourselves time to rest and recover from the year. This isn’t about abandoning healthy habits–it’s about releasing the pressure to perfect them all at once. Give yourself permission to simply enjoy the season: the connections with loved ones, the moments of stillness, the deliciously good food, and meaningful conversations. When you’re rested and renewed, you’ll have the clarity and energy to move forward with the wellness goals that resonate most deeply with you.
Simple Ways to Give Yourself the Gift of Rest:
- Schedule “nothing time” on your calendar: That’s right–schedule time to do absolutely nothing at all! Treat rest like any other important appointment. Find 30-60 minutes several times this week where you will have no obligations–no errands, no productivity, no screens. Just time to be quality content in whatever way brings you joy!
- Practice the “one thing” rule during this holiday season: Instead of trying to attend every event or accomplish every tradition, choose one meaningful activity per day and let the rest go. Quality over quantity allows for true enjoyment.
- Create a simple wind-down routine: Whether it’s an evening cup of tea, a short walk, journaling for a few minutes, or simply sitting quietly next to the Christmas tree–establish one small daily practice that signals to your body and mind: “This is time to rest.”
- Say no without guilt: Give yourself permission to decline invitations, skip optional commitments, or leave events early. Protecting your energy isn’t selfish–it’s essential for showing up fully where it matters most!
- Reflect before you restart: Before jumping into New Year goals, actually take some time to reflect honestly in a quiet space. Ask yourself: What do I need to let go of? What brought me joy this year? What does my body truly need right now? Use these reflections as fuel for your first steps into the New Year.
It’s a lifelong practice of simple, consistent, and intentional choices towards bettering your health over time. So as this year closes, consider making rest and reflection your priority. Pause. Breathe. Enjoy. The roadmap will still be there when you’re ready, and you’ll be so much better equipped to walk it after giving yourself this beautiful gift of slowing down.
Cheers to your health!
Meg Bonner, BSN, RN – NC-BC
Board Certified Nurse Coach
Email: megbonnerrn@gmail.com
