The Power of Rest-Why Slowing Down Speeds You Up!

I remember in my younger years, going through some challenging personal times.  When I would depend on my friends and/or family to talk too, I had one friend in particular who would say “I’m saying this for myself as much as I am you”.  This is how I feel about this article.  We all needs reminders of what we know is good for us, yet we somehow fail to do it.

In a fast-paced world that praises the hustle and glorifies burnout, the concept of rest is often seen as a luxury.  Some even see it as a weakness. Rest isn’t just a break from productivity… it’s a powerful tool to enhance it?

Regardless of what stage you are at in this Industry,  juggling a million tasks, or simply navigating life, rest is not optional — it’s essential.

I often have to remind myself, rest is not about being lazy. It’s about recharging your body, your mind, and your spirit so you can show up as your best self — professionally and personally.

1. Rest Repairs the Body

When we rest, especially through quality sleep, our body goes into healing mode. Muscles repair. Hormones balance. Skin rejuvenates. For those of us in the beauty  industry, understanding the power of physical recovery isn’t just personal — it’s something we should advocate for our clients too.

2. Rest Sharpens the Mind

Don’t you feel like everything feels harder when you’re tired.?  Mental fatigue reduces focus, decision-making, and creativity. True rest allows your brain to reset, making room for better ideas more clear thinking.

3. Rest Prevents Burnout

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the slow build-up of pushing through exhaustion and ignoring warning signs. Strategic rest can keep you grounded.  In addition, it can help you stay passionate about the work you love.

4. Rest Fuels Productivity

Studies show that those who take regular breaks and get enough sleep actually get more done than those who power through. Rest resets your energy, making you more efficient and effective. Which, in the end truly makes you feel better about yourself, the people around you and your passion.

5. Rest Reconnects You

Rest isn’t just about lying still and/or sleeping.  Spending time with loved ones, a quiet walk, or just sitting still — rest gives you space to reconnect with what matters most. It’s often in those quiet moments that we regain perspective and clarity.

You don’t need a two-week vacation to rest. Small changes can make a big impact: (THIS, I have to keep telling myself.)

• Protect your sleep — Set a consistent bedtime and reduce the amount of time glaring at your phone before bed.

• Take mini breaks throughout your day — Even 5 minutes of quiet or fresh air can reset your energy. Take a walk around the block or just hide in the bathroom 🙂

• Schedule downtime just like meetings — Block off time to do nothing. (I definitely need to do more of this)

• Say no — Not everything deserves your yes. Rest means setting boundaries. (Read my previous article)

• Unplug — Take time away from screens, social media, and constant notifications.

I understand, we live in a world which celebrates hustle!

Burnout isn’t a badge of honor.

It’s about coming back stronger. 💪

Taking time to pause can actually help you get more done, reduce stress, and stay passionate about the work you love.

💡 The Science Behind Rest

• When we sleep, the body goes into deep cellular repair. Growth hormone is released, which is crucial for muscle recovery, skin repair, and immune function.  We know our bodies heal better and faster at night…isn’t this whey we recommend skin repair creams to be used at night?

• Rest also supports brain detox — literally. The lymphatic system flushes out waste from the brain during sleep, improving mental clarity and memory.

🧠 The Psychological Benefits

• Rest is creating space to mentally disconnect.

• True rest can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increase serotonin (feel-good hormone), improving both your mood and your resilience.

🛑 What Happens When We Don’t Rest?

• Chronic fatigue – (ME)

• Increased risk of illness and injury – (ME)

• Mental fog, irritability, and poor decision-making (TOTALLY ME)

• Lack of creativity or motivation (YUP)

• Physical signs like breakouts, inflammation, and premature aging (IT’S LIKE I’M GOING THROUGH PUBERTY AGAIN)

?? ASK YOURSELF

• “When’s the last time you gave yourself permission to slow down?”

• “How do you protect your peace?”

• Is it worth missing time with family/friends, being short or angry with people around you and even hating what you do?

Take the time to slow down to the speed of life

CJ Murray,President