Peach Friedman
author, educator & trainer
intuitive fitness for women

Hello, body. I knew halfway through my twelve-hour yoga teacher training day on Saturday that something wasn’t right. But, what’s a type-A to do except push on through?

And push I did. Vigorous asana practice, stimulating conversation, late night, Father’s Day, a visit from family & friends, not to mention caring for my six-month-old (as of yesterday; happy half birthday, Victoria!). And when I climbed in bed last night, I desperately wanted to begin organizing the beautiful new jewelry box my husband gave me as a birthday gift. And to start reading the Yoga Sutras. And to respond to a few emails. And to watch the video my husband was making. And then to have a peanut butter sandwich at 11pm. And…

Good morning, body. Scratchy throat, heavy head, tired bones. Today is a rest day.

We all know to value sleep. Getting a solid eight hours a night is difficult enough for many busy moms, so beyond the basics of some decent shut-eye, how can we invite rest into our lives?

Here’s my recipe for radiant rest today:
- jammies!
- lots of warm tea with honey (even though it’s promising to be a hot one)
- tall glasses of water with Emergen-C vitamin packets
- cuddle time in bed with baby
- laundry: off limits!

I won’t be leaving the house until my 4pm group, and I’m not going to worry about tidying up or taking Victoria on her morning walk. I’m also visualizing the richness of this rest seeping into my body, as if I could watch nourishment and quiet-time flush through my limbs.

It’s easy to get swept up in the busy tasks of our daily lives. For those of us who value productivity and checking off things on our to-do list, it’s especially challenging to invite a day off into our lives. When was the last time you let go of the laundry and called in sick?

Now, back to my cup of tea and cooing babe…!