These last few weeks have been a whirlwind of studying, packing, moving, and more studying. I had every intention of keeping up with my weekly blog, but things got away from me. Many things, actually. I used to think final exams were difficult, but now that I’m studying for a bar exam, well, let’s just say it’s a beast.
*Photo Credit: Tulane Public Relations, Creative Commons
One thing I have learned, though, in these past weeks is the importance of resting. I’m not talking about the watch-Netflix or surf-the-internet kind of resting, but a withdrawal from the world. Finding a space of solitude and healing.
In this caffeine-fueled world with round-the-clock notifications of e-mails, texts, and tasks bombarding us, it is all too easy to become fatigued. Our bodies cry out for sleep. Our minds grow weary. And our souls yearn for peace.
Letting ourselves slow down and disconnect from the chaotic noise and busyness may sound a little frightening to people. A friend recently pointed me to a new study published in Science that found that people would rather “self-administer an electric shock that they had earlier said they would pay to avoid” so they would not have to be alone with their own thoughts for 15 minutes.
Just as little kids don’t want to go to bed even if they are tired, we distract ourselves with music and television in order to avoid confronting our inner truths, even if we would be better off resting.
*Photo Credit: Holly Victoria Norval, Creative Commons
Shauna Niequist puts it best when she says, “Creative, meaningful work comes from a strong soul, one that’s been fed and nurtured enough to be bold and honest and fearless.”
You won’t hear from me for the rest of this month. I’m taking a breather from blogging and focusing my attention on studying and resting.
I hope you are able to take some time this month to nurture your soul. Rest. Relax. Recharge.
Until August, my friends.
Katelyn Holub 