How Much Rest Do We Need?
Yesterday, on my Red Tent call, we discussed the importance of taking time to rest.
But how much rest do we actually need?
According to Emily Nagoski in her book Burnout, she says we need 42%.
That's the percentage of time that our body and brain need us to spend resting.
It doesn’t have to be every day. It can average out over a week, a month or more. Or even better, it could average out over our own menstrual cycle (taking extra time during menstruation).
And before you say (as I did), 'I don't have that amount of time!', Nagoski remind us,
"We’re not saying you should take 42 percent of your time to rest; we’re saying if you don’t take the 42 percent, the 42 percent will take you.
It will grab you by the face, shove you to the ground, put its foot on your chest, and declare itself the victor."
Resting is not an option. It's essential.
For our body, mind, mood and hormones.