Give Yourself Permission to Rest

I grew up in a house where we always had to stay "busy." Looking back, I guess it kept us out of trouble as kids. So, it served a purpose then. But, no I’m a 45-year-old woman living with MS and raising a toddler. I have to unlearn that “keep busy” mindset. If I don’t it will cost me my health.

Living with MS, rest is part of our healing plan. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

We tell ourselves the lie that we have to earn rest and that there's always more to be done.

What I've learned about rest

Rest isn't something you have to earn after being productive; it’s the very thing that helps you to be productive. Over the years, I’ve had to turn down the noise on thoughts like "but you haven't done enough today," so I could turn up the volume to the truth that reminded me, “your body needs you to rest right now, that’s the priority.”

When your body demands rest, it's not being lazy – it's actively working on healing. My body has a pretty long to-do list when it comes to healing, too. Living with MS, my body is constantly working to reduce inflammation and ideally regulate its immune response.

I think all of this happens most effectively when resting.

So, I remind myself, that afternoon nap isn't a sign of giving up, it's giving my body what it needs to support healing.

Creating a Rest Routine

The planner inside of me very quickly turned this journey into an opportunity to create an official plan. I know that every day with MS is different, but it just felt good that I was putting a plan in place to increase my chances of actually resting more.

If you’re thinking about creating your rest routine, here are some things to consider.

• Create a restful environment in your home
• Set boundaries with others about your need for rest
• Learn to recognize early fatigue signals
• Have a rest plan for workdays
• Communicate your needs clearly with family

The Long Game

Think of rest as your long-term stamina strategy. Making rest a part of your regular routine can help you:

Have more stable energy throughout your day. Reduce the depth of energy crashes. Think more clearly. Experience more balanced mood. Save energy for what truly matters

Your Permission

Consider this your official permission slip to rest. To take that nap. To say no to that optional activity. To rest on the couch in the middle of the day. To listen to your body without guilt. Did you catch that last part “without guilt?” If you’re like me, you might need to read that line a couple times, so it really sinks in.

Your Plan

So, the next time you feel guilt creeping in about needing to rest, remember:

Rest is not a reward for being productive – it's a necessary part of living with MS. Listening to your body is an act of wisdom, not weakness. Every moment of rest is supporting your body's healing processes. You don't need to earn the right to take care of yourself.

Now, I’m curious to hear from you. What has helped you in taking the rest time that you need during your day? Share below so we can learn from you, too.