Wellbeing is our right – yet in our increasingly switched on and overly productive societies, its foundation – deep, intentional rest – can feel like a radical choice says Emine Kali Rushton
A few months ago I began filming short reels for my scattergun shares on Instagram. They were captured in the moment - I was often depleted, still in my PJs, and keen to talk (rant) about how to-do lists were dominating my life, when I really needed to lie down and have a nap.
Many sympathised, sharing how they too longed to close the door and have a snooze. Or dreamed of curling up with a book for one, glorious, golden, uninterrupted afternoon.
The sad truth is that this simplest of choices has become unattainable. Combine a shaky postpandemic and post-Brexit economy with waves of global unrest, add in the cost of living crisis and we’re in ‘lack’ mentality (remember all that panicked stockpiling of loo rolls during Covid?). It’s hard to maintain a balanced approach when we are being told constantly, just how hard this year will be. How we’ll struggle to make ends meet.
Well, I believe that that same fear-seeding is behind our relationship with our work and its essential antidote: rest. In times of crisis and conflict, the message is clear: dig deep. Do your bit (and so much more). Sacrifice. Go without. Take what you’re given and be grateful for it. But remain productive, efficient, reliable (or you’ll let the side down).
