How a Little R&R Can Literally Change Your Life
By Genevieve Cunningham
So many of us need a little rest and relaxation. We work, work, work until we are spent and on the brink of utter exhaustion. For some reason, we put this very important part of life on the back-burner. We think that we can do without the rest that we so desperately need, and that if we work hard enough it will pay off in the end. While hard work can certainly go a long way, it does little in the way of your long-term health. Check out these three ways in which getting a little R&R can change your life and health for the better.
It Allows for a Healthy Mind
When you work too long without a break, you likely begin to lose both concentration and motivation. That is because we need rest in order to keep our minds clear and healthy. Your mind, just like your body, needs time to unwind and basically shut down in order to restart efficiently. Without this break, your mind will become overworked, and your cognitive abilities will suffer as a result.
It Can Boost Energy
This is an obvious benefit, but nonetheless one that should be pointed out. If you find yourself lacking energy consistently, it is time to take a break. There comes a point where you have spent all of your reserves. When this happens, the only result will be poor health. Instead of letting it get to this point, make yourself take some time off. It doesn’t have to be a two-week vacation. It can be a day, an hour, or a 20-minute catnap. The rest will allow our body to store a little energy back up, and long-term this will provide a boost in the amount of energy that you have on a daily basis.
It Encourages Better Moods
This might be a bigger benefit for other people! In all seriousness, rest helps your mind and body relax, and allows you to reset your emotions. When your body and mind get taxed, bad moods are just waiting to happen. You can’t cope with the physical and mental stress that comes with the taxation, and so it comes out strong in your moods. Allowing regular R&R will help keep your moods under control, or more importantly, it will give you the strength and energy to deal with various situations without lashing out.
When it’s time to rest, don’t skimp. Take the time that you need, and don’t feel bad about it. It will only enhance your health and wellness, as well as your productivity in the long run. Get a little R&R, and feel better about yourself and your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Walnut Creek, Calif.