Rest is Restorative

REST is our brain’s superpower. Remember that last big Aha! moment in your life, that came while driving, or in the shower, or when you woke up from a good night’s sleep? There is so much scientific backing to help you tell your brain to take a break and do something restful and relaxing.

In “The Brain at Rest - How the Art and Science of Doing Nothing Can Improve Your Life”, author Joseph Jebelli gives us enough data points to affirm what we already know: When we can rest deeply, our quality of life feels vastly improved. He identifies the default network, an important circuit of neurons that enables us to daydream, mind-wander, think reflectively and imagine the future. Crucially, the default network is only active when we are not focused on an exerting task. In short, it is only when our minds are free to wander and roam that we can receive the benefit of enhanced intelligences, creativity, social empathy, and improved wellbeing.

Here are a few ideas from the book that are worthy of reflection and contemplation:

Mind Wandering: Could you schedule a 10 to 20 minute break to lay on the couch and listen to music without doing anything?

Forest Bathing: Apply for a forest bathing retreat at our physical location on the Olympic Peninsula and experience the difference for yourself.

Mindful Solitude: Let us help you cultivate a mindful solitude that can be your rest bubble and accessible to you whenever you need it.

Play: Learn to play in new ways to reimagine a creative, playful, more embodied and rested You.