Still the Sea

I’ve been going nonstop. From consults and projects at work to birthday parties to connecting with friends to fulfilling commitments in the community, my days have been full. Don’t get me wrong, I love everything I am doing. It’s just lately I sense I am spreading myself thin. My mind, heart and body have been pouring out to the point of exhaustion. I feel a bit stretched.

When I feel this way, my body begins to shut down. I get a little cranky. I have a hard time engaging and staying focused.  I get hungry more often. I have to slow down on my long runs. My body tells me it’s time to rest. I need space. I need solitude. I need a chance to breathe.

Ever feel this way? I have a hunch you know exactly what I am talking about.

These signs make it easy for me to detect when I need to rest. If I don’t get it soon, I will be laid up in bed sick from exhaustion. But what else could be happening in my spirit, soul, and body that I may not be aware of when I don’t get enough rest? Am I able to hear the Spirit tell me what direction I should go or am I falling asleep before getting an answer? Am I slowly dying to certain desires because I don’t have the energy to keep it aflame? Is my digestive system not working properly because I’m constantly eating to stay awake?

Rest is crucial for survival. Studies show that rest can rejuvenate all your cells helping your brain increase its capacity, your muscles repair, and your heart to beat properly. Rest refuels your energy stores. Rest heals. Rest revitalizes your dreams. Rest has been a fundamental principle since this world was created. Once the Creator, God, completed his work, He took a day to rest. If the Creator found it of such importance that He designated a day for it, I must make it a foundational principle for how I live.

If resting heals and our goal is to live physically whole (as well as emotionally, mentally, and spiritually), maybe we should consider resting our digestive system?! *Taking time away from food or food we normally eat can actually rest and help heal our body.* A few studies have shown that fasting can improve longevity because it delays the onset of age-related diseases (like diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s)

Still the Sea is starting a 10 day cleanse on Monday, June 11. This could be the perfect opportunity for you to rest your digestive system allowing it time to heal. Make sure to check with your doctor before starting a cleanse or incorporating any type of fast to ensure it is safe for you. Whatever your health goal may be – losing weight, gaining more energy, reducing cholesterol, getting stronger and faster, or regulating your hormones – a time of resting from certain foods will help you achieve it. Will you join the challenge? What will you do over the next 2 weeks to rest your body, your soul, and your spirit?