Rest and Meditation
There are little bits of clay that find their way into our mind. Individually they are annoying, but otherwise insignificant. However as time lurches forward stress seeps into our day as each blob globs together into clogs. This mess infuses us with duress until our vibrant light is replaced with strife.
Instead of getting caught in the craziness of our head we can focus on releasing our dread. We can accomplish this by cultivating our peace with rest and meditation. We can break the monotony of our moments by rediscovering the sweet tooth of our youth. We can embrace being silly, jumping with glee, and spending time with people who help us feel free.
Meditation manifests in many ways. For some we can capture a moment outside ourselves with creative expression. Others require the guidance of spoken word, while the remaining number may need to simply sit still.
Sometimes I can feel the little chunks of clay inside my mind. When I do I take the time to visualize them with my third eye. Sitting silently I envision their existence and smush them into smaller bits until they dissipate into smooth sheets of peace.
This exercise is often useful, because it takes me out of a stressful ambient second by soothing my soul. It is not a permanent fix, but nothing ever is. The only permanence that exists is the inevitable, and unavoidable permanent end. Instead of searching for things to alleviate the entirety of our suffering we must develop methods to build bridges of trust within our inside parts. When we do this it can help us celebrate the seconds of our life in momentary and meaningful ways.
What is rest?
Sometimes I push against my desire to rest and take a break. When I was younger break time and days off were easier to enjoy. As an entrepreneur I am often confused by the idea.
Why in the world would anyone be confounded by the importance of time away? A lot of it comes down to the idea that “no matter where we go, there we are”. Another side to my resistance is “we are always doing something somewhere”.
So, what is the difference if I am working at the spa, meddling around at home, or chatting with someone at a coffee house?
The difference is we are doing something different. Truly it is as simple as that. It grants us the opportunity to change gears and take life down a different path. Resting breaks the monotony of our existence, and a change-of-pace is always refreshing.
I believe there are various kinds of rest that our mind, body, spirit, and soul need to feel free.
1. Boredom rest
To fully and completely rest we must occasionally have a day where we do nothing. When I say nothing, I mean bored out of our mind unproductive.
Boredom, I believe is a key to achieve true rest. We have to explore the discomfort of existing without distraction to return to an optimized state of mind.
2. Reflection rest
Reflection in isolation grants us the ability to explore ideas within our head space. This delightful indulgence feeds our mind the scoobie snacks it needs.
Reflection rest manifests in many ways. We could simply spend time thinking about this or that. It could be writing a story, poem or song. It could also be enjoyed with other creative endeavors such as drawing, painting, or sculpting. Anything that explores our thoughts without the distraction of other people’s ideas are a reflection of this kind of rest.
3. Sleep rest
Sleep is essential. We need it every day and sometimes we need a weekend to lay in bed catching up on some z’s. People like to say “you can’t catch up on your sleep”. Truly I think these people are fools, as a man who has endured days without sleep I can tell you we can catch up on our sleepy time tunes.
4. Fun rest
We have to enjoy ourselves. Without pleasure our existence becomes meaningless.
5. Hypnotic rest
Most of the rest we receive in the modern era is Hypnotic rest. This is achieved when we numb our mind with endless cat videos, cable TV, or any other thoughtless activity. Hypnotic rest lets us shut down and think about nothing for a while. Unfortunately since this kind of rest is so prevalent it often denies us access to our much-needed boredom rest.
6. Physical Touch rest
As mammal creatures we require touch. This could be an experience as simple as a handshake, a hug, or a massage. It helps us reconnect with our humanity and the existence of others.
7. Receptive rest
Sometimes we need to pass the reins to someone else and let go. This manifests in many ways. It could be enjoyed by receiving acts of service, indulging submissiveness, or simply letting someone else plan a date.
8. Adventure or Physical rest
There are times when we need the spark of adventure to lighten the load of our life. This type of rest encapsulates the joy we have on road trips, taking a drive, practicing Taekwondo, riding roller coasters, or even working out.
9. Productive rest
Participating in productive activities outside of our obligations can replenish us. Some people love to clean, organize, repair, and build things. Other people may enjoy activities like volunteering at a soup kitchen, running charity events, or teaching people new skills.
10. Romantic rest
Spending time with someone we are romantically involved with or interested in can relieve stress and help us escape duress. This kind of rest is often paired with many others and it typically enhances their benefit. For example, it is often easier to endure boredom besides someone we love.
11. Platonic rest
Spending time with friends is another way to replenish our inside parts. Though similar to Romantic rest the benefits are not identical. Platonic relationships are an essential ingredient of our harmony pie.
When we have quality friends it gives us a place to share our ideas, receive criticism, and guidance. Depending on the nature of the platonic relationship it is often paired with other types of rest.
