Soulful Sunday #44: The Wisdom of Rest

The wisdom of relaxing (1)

Soul Reflections

I often amaze at the way society has shaped us into a nation addicted to doing.

The chronic doer is often commended for their ‘productivity’ and applauded for their ability to get things done. But at what cost? Their health? Their sanity? Their loved ones? People addicted to doing often feel a sense of adrenaline each time they tick something off their ‘to do list’ and rarely feel at ease when simply resting. But as Lin Yutang reminds us:

Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of the non-essentials.

Now I’m not suggesting we all go on strike and neglect our daily duties in favour of Netflix. But what I am suggesting is that we allow moments in our day to simply be. To be still, to enjoy moments of solitude, to give our undivided attention to our loved ones without the distraction of electronics and phones, to make time for laughter, play and creativity each day.

Your body, mind and heart need not wait until an unfortunate event, loss or illness forces you to stop and pay attention. Healing can begin now. Living can begin today. Today, silence your phone. Leave the chores for a few hours. Trust that what’s important will be taken care of. And the rest? Well that can simply wait.

Soul Strolls

This week I have been enjoying some gentle strolls around my local park. I also enjoyed a lovely catch up with friends at Cantani Gardens in St Kilda. The same spot where I enjoyed festival fun and music at The Pleasure Gardens last weekend. This week, the festival friendlies were nowhere in sight, and we enjoyed a peaceful picnic among the trees. What are you doing this weekend? Remember, if resting and recovery is on your agenda – however that looks to you, then I applaud you.

pic nic

Soul Food

I am loving chia seed puddings at the moment and I also LOVE LOVE LOVE DoTerra essential Oils. I’ve been using them for over a year now with amazing benefits on an emotional and physical level. Today I am sharing Alice Nicholl’s recipe which combines my two favourite things in this delicious Citrus Parfait.

loaded-citrus-parfait-essential-oils-doterra

Soul Music

Today, I’d love to share a track called Breathe by Delilah. So often we get in our own way and we feel we can no longer breathe. This song reminds me to be free from myself.


Soul Sisters

Today I am sharing Bernice’s post The Book Of Awakening. A beautiful reminder of our blessings to be here enjoying this human experience. Let us not waste that opportunity in worrying, and embrace this moment, here, today.

Wrapping you all in a restful, warm hug. May your Sunday be gloriously restful and refreshing.

In love & light,

Hayley xx