FOCUS

 Self-Care and Sabbath  

 "Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

Making rest and reflection a part of your routine can enhance your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

1. Define Your Purpose for Rest and Reflection

2. Schedule Intentional Time

3. Create a restful environment

4. Practice Intentional Rest

5. Develop a Reflection Routine

6. Embrace small breaks

7. Balance activity with stillness

8. Use resources and prompts

9. Involve your faith

10. Evaluate and adjust

 1. Activities for Rest and Reflection

Physical Rest

- Stretching or Yoga: Gentle movements can relax your body and calm your mind. Consider using guided videos like Yoga with Adriene.

- Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing for 5–10 minutes to release tension.

- Example: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, and repeat.

- Nature Walks: Spend time outdoors, observing God’s creation or simply appreciating your surroundings.

Mental Rest

- Digital Detox: Set boundaries for screen time and unplug during your rest period.

- Creative Hobbies: Paint, draw, knit, or engage in a relaxing activity you enjoy.

- Mindfulness Practices: Use techniques like body scans or focusing on the present moment.

Spiritual Rest

- Sabbath Observance: Dedicate a day or part of a day each week to rest, worship, and cease work.

- Meditative Prayer: Repeat a short prayer or Scripture verse, like “The Lord is my shepherd” (Psalm 23:1), while focusing on your breathing.

- Worship Music: Listen to calming hymns or contemporary worship songs to uplift your spirit.

Reflection Practices

- Gratitude Journaling: Write three things you’re grateful for each day.

- Examen Prayer: Reflect on your day by asking:

1. Where did I see God’s presence today?

2. What brought me joy or challenge?

3. How can I grow tomorrow?

- Goal Setting: Evaluate personal goals and realign them with your values.

2. Scripture for Reflection

- Verses About Rest:

- “It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.” (Psalm 127:2)

- “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures.” (Psalm 23:1–2)

- Verses for Stillness:

- “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” (Psalm 37:7)

- “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27)

3. Resources for Guidance

Books

- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer: A guide to slowing down and embracing rest.

- Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero: Explore how spiritual health impacts rest and growth.

- Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith: Understand seven types of rest and how to incorporate them into life.

Devotionals

- Jesus Calling by Sarah Young: Daily devotions focused on rest and trusting God.

- New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp: Offers daily gospel reflections for renewal.

Apps

- Abide: Christian meditation and prayer app.

- Dwell: Listen to Scripture read aloud in various voices and translations.

- Calm or Headspace: For mindfulness and guided breathing exercises.

4. Creating a Restful Ritual

1. Prepare Your Space: Light a candle, play soft music, or have a cup of tea.

2. Set Intentions: Start your rest time by stating your goal (e.g., “I want to feel peace,” or “I want to connect with God.”).

3. Combine Practices: Pair restful activities (like stretching) with reflection (journaling or prayer).