Why Rest Is a Mental Health Priority This Season

As the holidays creep in and our to-do lists seem to multiply overnight, it’s easy to fall into the rhythm of rushing from one thing to the next. But beneath all the noise and obligations, our mental health often begs for something simple: rest. Real rest. The kind that helps us breathe a little deeper, think a little clearer, and feel more grounded. It’s not indulgent or selfish—it’s a vital part of staying mentally well, especially during a season that can be as exhausting as it is joyful. And even if it feels like there’s no space to slow down, there are small, meaningful ways to make room for rest. Your mental health will thank you.

Why Is Rest Essential for Your Mental Health?

Think about it—we are not machines designed to run nonstop. The simple fact that we need several hours of sleep each night is proof enough. But rest is so much more than just sleep. It’s about the small pauses we take throughout the day, the moments of quiet that allow our minds to reset.

When we consistently skip these moments, we start to feel frazzled and overwhelmed. That feeling of burnout isn’t just about being tired; it’s a state of emotional and mental exhaustion. Before you even get to that point, a lack of rest can increase anxiety, irritability, and feelings of sadness. To truly care for our mental health, we need to make a conscious choice to slow down and embrace rest in all its forms.

How Can You Get More Rest?

The first step toward getting more rest and improving your mental health this season is to take a gentle, honest look at your current habits. Grab a cup of tea and a notebook, and ponder these questions without judgment:

• How many hours of sleep do you really get each night? Is it restorative?
• Do you often eat lunch hunched over your keyboard, or do you skip it altogether?
• When was the last time you truly enjoyed a weekend without a to-do list?
• Have you made time for a coffee or a meal with a friend recently?
• What’s a hobby that brings you joy, and when did you last make time for it?
• When you feel sick, do you push through or give yourself permission to recover?
• How much time do you spend scrolling on your phone before bed?
• Can you remember your last real vacation?

Answering these questions might reveal some surprising truths. Maybe you realize you haven’t had a proper lunch break in weeks, or that your weekends are just as scheduled as your weekdays. Seeing it on paper can be the gentle nudge you need to make a change.

How to Weave Rest into Your Daily Life

Creating space for rest doesn’t always require a dramatic life overhaul. Small, intentional changes can make a world of difference in our mental health.

• Reclaim Your Lunch Break: Step away from your desk. Eating your lunch in a different room or, even better, outside on a nice day can break up your day and give your brain a much-needed pause.
• Schedule “Do Nothing” Time: It might sound silly, but block out small pockets of rest in your calendar. Treat a 15-minute break with the same importance as a meeting. Use this time to stretch, listen to a favorite song, or simply sit and breathe.
• Create a Sleep Sanctuary: Your bedroom should be a haven for rest. Try to keep work and screens out of it. Developing a simple, calming bedtime routine—like reading a chapter of a book or doing some light stretches—can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
• Use Your Vacation Days: So many of us leave vacation time on the table. You’ve earned this time! Plan a trip, or even just a few days at home to unplug and do things that fill your cup. You deserve it.
• Swap Scrolling for Something Soulful: Instead of falling into the rabbit hole of social media, try replacing that time with something more nourishing. A short walk around the block, a quick chat with a loved one, or five minutes of meditation can be far more restorative.

All in Moderation

Finding a sense of balance is the heart of this journey. It’s not about abandoning your responsibilities but about re-prioritizing your mental health. You can be productive and dedicated while also being rested and joyful. It starts with a commitment—not to do more, but to rest more. By giving yourself this gift, you’re investing in your long-term mental health and happiness.