Finding rest in an 'always-on' culture
I have a lot of conversations with clients about how they are finding joy and rest. This is part of how we allow our nervous systems to recover from stress and often how we are connecting with others or ourselves. But for many, the “always-on” culture of the world today––a pressure to be productive in work and personal life, devices that keep us tuned in at all times, poor boundaries around time and energy––makes it really hard to access and experience true rest.
We are seeing the effects of this through chronic stress and increased reactivity. We’re seeing more edginess, aggression, impatience, anxiety, and depression. Finding true rest––mental, emotional, and physical––is more critical than ever.
But how do we navigate a world that never seems to slow down?
The Myth of Constant Productivity
As the lines between work and personal life blur, it becomes increasingly clear that the myth of constant productivity comes with a hefty price tag. The truth is, our brains and bodies aren’t built to operate in perpetual overdrive. When we’re always plugged in, we miss out on the deep, restorative rest that allows us to recharge.
Chronic stress, burnout, and mental fatigue are pervasive as we try to keep pace with the constant demands of our lives. Without sufficient rest, our decision-making abilities, creativity, and emotional resilience diminish, leaving us feeling drained, disconnected, or on-edge.
The Importance of Rest
Rest isn't just about sleeping longer hours, though sleep is, of course, crucial. True rest encompasses a variety of practices, including mental detachment from work, physical relaxation, and emotional rejuvenation. The goal isn’t merely to "disconnect" but to re-establish a balance that fosters a healthier relationship with technology, work, and self-care.
Research has shown that people who rest properly are more productive, more creative, and even happier. Rest doesn’t just help you recover from physical exertion; it allows your mind to rejuvenate, your body to repair, and your emotions to stabilize. It creates the conditions necessary for growth, both personally and professionally.
Creating Boundaries in an 'Always-On' World
The key to finding rest in an "always-on" culture is setting boundaries. This means carving out time in your day where you intentionally disconnect from work, the internet, and other distractions. Here are a few practical ways to incorporate rest into your routine:
Scheduled Downtime: Just as you schedule meetings or tasks, make time for rest in your calendar. It could be a 30-minute break to walk outside, read, meditate, or listen to music. Treat it as non-negotiable — your mental health depends on it.
Technology Detox: Implement periods during the day when you disconnect from screens. For instance, avoid checking emails or scrolling through social media for at least an hour after waking up and before going to bed. This can help clear your mind and prevent the constant barrage of information from overwhelming you.
Mindful Movement: Engage in physical activities that allow you to focus on your body and breath. Yoga, swimming, or taking a walk can help you center yourself, reduce stress, and feel a little more embodied.
Nourish Your Mind: Resting doesn’t always mean physical inactivity. Engage in activities that nourish your mental and emotional health. This could be journaling, listening to music, or committing to a regular therapy space.
Prioritize Sleep: Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Make sure your sleep environment is conducive to rest — keep your room dark, quiet, and cool, and establish a bedtime routine that helps signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
Rest as a Form of Resistance
In many ways, choosing to rest in an "always-on" world is an act of resistance. It’s a statement that you are not defined by your productivity or your availability. By reclaiming your time and attention, you are asserting your right to be human — to rest, recover, and live in a way that prioritizes your health and happiness.
Rest isn’t just a break from work; it’s a foundation for a more sustainable and fulfilling life. By stepping away from the constant demands of an "always-on" culture, we create space to reconnect with ourselves and reset our nervous system. Building in time to rest and reset is not optional a healthy mind-body system. If you’re interested in finding out about how somatic therapy can help support rest, recovery, and reconnection, I hope you’ll reach out.