
Do You Find It Tough To Rest?
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Ever tried to sit completely still and do nothing? It's surprisingly tough. Even when we're exhausted, our minds still buzz with thoughts and endless to-do lists. In this episode, I share how getting over COVID made me realise just how hard it is to properly rest, and why that's doubly tricky for dyslexic thinkers.
You'll hear me chat about the natural restlessness that plagues many of us, especially when dyslexia is part of our lives. We dig into tips for finding pockets of quiet, and explore why a modest pause in routine can offer huge benefits for mental clarity. If your mind has been on overdrive or you've been run down, this one's for you.
Why Rest Feels Impossible
We often have so many plans swirling around in our heads that the idea of pure stillness can feel odd. I used to think rest meant lying on the couch doing absolutely nothing, but I've learned it's more about switching off the inner chatter.
"I'm pretty sure it's impossible to do absolutely nothing. There's always a thought, an itch, or something else demanding attention."
When we're smashed by sickness or burnout, we want to stop. Then again, our impatient brains won't always give us a break. It's a paradox many dyslexic folks face, and I touched on how I wrestled with it during COVID.
The Dyslexic Mind in Overdrive
Dyslexia often comes with creative thinking, but this creativity doesn't always have an off switch. Doing nothing can lead to a flurry of new ideas. It's like your brain can't help but remain in motion, even when your body is desperate for rest.
If you find yourself planning, daydreaming or brainstorming the moment you attempt to slow down, you're not alone. Our minds are problem-solvers, even when there's no problem to solve. That’s what makes unwinding so challenging.
Small Shifts for Real Rest
Absolute stillness may not be practical, yet there are ways to bring more space into your day. Try:
- Mindful breaks: Flip your phone face-down and focus on a few deep breaths.
- Gentle walks: Walk without an agenda or specific route. Just enjoy the rhythm of your steps.
- Creative downtime: Write, doodle or tinker. Low-pressure, simple tasks can help you unwind.
- Micro-naps: A quick rest for ten minutes can renew focus and energy.
These little pauses add up, particularly if you're dealing with fatigue from illness. They ease the need for constant mental output.
Life After COVID
Catching COVID took me out for a bit. When I tried to rest, I realised how restless I was. Body felt drained, mind was spinning. I felt guilty not doing my usual tasks. What if I missed a deadline or forgot a great idea?
But the truth is we need recovery time. Stepping away from your schedule for even a short period can be a gift, though it might take a while to accept it and stop feeling like you're wasting time. I found that being ill reminded me how important small breaks are outside of sickness too.
Takeaways
- Genuine rest doesn't have to mean total inactivity.
- Dyslexic minds thrive on movement, but mindful breaks restore calm.
- Short pauses can boost creativity and sharpen focus in the long run.
- Don't feel guilty carving out quiet moments or a lazy afternoon.
- Start small. A few minutes of true calm is better than none.
Ready to dig deeper? The podcast player is at the top of this page, so give it a click and tune in. Hear the full conversation for more insights on what rest really looks like, especially when your brain simply won't turn off.