My previous blog, Theology of Rest, talks about how rest is a divine gift and how beneficial it is to us. The issue for many, though, is where and when can rest be found in our busy lives?

To rest means “to cease work or movement in order to relax, refresh oneself or recover strength.” Consider the sequence: ceasing work leads to relaxation of the mind and body, which leads to refreshment of the spirit, which then leads to recovered strength of the mind, body and spirit. Rest is a win for every facet of our being.

Consider creation. Many plants go dormant in the winter. Some animals and insects hibernate, which slows down metabolism, heartbeat and breathing. This type of rest—or ceasing of movement—is vital to their survival and existence. They follow their instinct and just do it.

So why does humanity often resist it?

Many don’t prioritize rest in everyday life because of the perceived time it takes.

Longer forms of rest—like warm, soaking baths or afternoons reading on the porch—are necessary for us, to be sure. But really, short pockets of rest can be found in the most unexpected, tiniest places. Rest is everywhere—right in the middle of life as it happens. And every form of it is valuable to our well-being.

Consider these small spaces of time where rest can be found:

1. in that space between an inhale and exhale
2. waiting for appointments—forgo social media and just sit and breathe
3. in the moment that follows a sip of coffee or wine
4. in the time waiting at a red light
5. in the pause between the ticks of a clock
6. in those minute pauses in the rhythmic sounds of cicadas and crickets
7. waiting in the checkout line
8. in the pauses between a bird’s repetitive song
9. in the gentle breeze between strong wind gusts
10. in the measured speech of an elderly person
11. in those times when you make eye contact with your beloved pet
12. the space between a prayer and an “Amen”

Just for those moments, cease mental movement in order to relax, refresh oneself and recover strength.

It is in those pauses of rest that rejuvenation on every level takes place.

Where will you find rest today?