Slow Living for Chronically Ill People Series Week 6: The Power of Rest and Gentle Movement

When you’re living with a chronic illness, finding the right balance between rest and movement is important.  Rest is the part of this equation that is considered to be healing. Movement, when gentle and intentional, can help improve your mood, circulation, and energy levels.  In this blog post, we are going to talk about how to find that balance in a way that feels kind, doable, and just right for you even when it feels hard.  If you're new to the slow living series and you want to start at week one, you can start here.

Why Rest Matters

Rest is not lazy—it’s necessary. Your body needs time to recharge and recover, especially if you're dealing with pain, fatigue, or brain fog. Giving yourself permission to rest is a powerful act of self-care.  Let's take a look at some practical ways on doing that.

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Tips for Better Rest:

1. Create a calming bedtime routine. Try dim lights, a warm drink, and quiet time before bed.
2. Use cozy comfort items. A weighted blanket or heated throw can help soothe tired muscles. 
3. Limit screen time before sleep. Try a good book or gentle music instead.
4. Take short rest breaks during the day. Even 10-15 minutes of lying down can help reset your energy.

Why Gentle Movement Helps

You don’t need an intense workout to feel better. Gentle movement helps keep your body flexible, supports circulation, and can even improve mental health. It’s all about listening to your body and moving in ways that feel good.

Ideas for Gentle Movement:

1. Stretching: Try simple, slow stretches to loosen up your body. 
2. Chair Yoga: Great for days when standing is too much. These workouts can be done from sitting in a chair.
3. Walking: Even short walks count. A walk around your home or outside for fresh air can lift your spirits.
4. Light Housework: Making the bed, watering plants, or folding laundry can be gentle ways to stay active.
5. Guided Movement Videos: Look for beginner-friendly videos that focus on low-impact movement.

How to Find Balance

The key is to listen to your body. Some days you may need more rest, and other days you may have the energy for a little more movement. That’s okay.

Tips for Balancing Rest and Movement:

1. Start small: Even 5 minutes of movement can make a difference.

2. Use the Spoon Theory: Think of your energy like spoons. Spend them wisely.

3. Alternate rest with activity: Try 15 minutes of activity followed by 15 minutes of rest.

4. Track your energy: Use a journal to notice when you feel your best.

Helpful Tools:

1. Body Pillow for better rest and support 

2. Comfortable Yoga Mat for stretching or floor movement 

3. Bluetooth Sleep Headphones for calming music or meditations in bed 

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to push yourself to feel better. Sometimes the most healing thing you can do is rest. And when you’re ready, a little movement—just enough to wake your body up—can help you feel more connected, calm, and cared for.

Honor what your body needs each day. You deserve rest. You deserve peace. And you deserve to feel good in your own way, on your own timeline.

In this together,

Laura 

Please note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical or health advice. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized guidance.