Often we think of rest as passive activities such as taking a nap or having a bath. And this type of rest is important.
And so is active rest. Activities that we enjoy, like taking a hike up a hill, or chatting with a friend, are active rest . One of my favourite active rest activities is to swim in the river with a friend and drink hot tea on the bank afterwards.
Active rest gives your mind a break from your usual worries. When you're taking active rest, let your mind drift to the different sensations you are experiencing - the feeling of the air on your skin, the warmth of the sunlight, the dappling light from the trees, the feeling of your feet on the path, the taste of the coffee, or your friend's smile.
Pilates is active rest for many people. Pilates is a time to switch gears; to allow your mind to focus on the sensations in your body. It gives active rest from being stuck in your head with your thoughts replaying. Pilates is a bite-sized holiday for your mind and lets you rest in the sensations of your body. And the best part is, the more you practice, the easier it becomes to slide out of your worries and take active rest.
Two questions for you: What are your favourite activities for active rest? What active rest are you going to take this week? Comment below, I'd love to know.
Comentarios