As an athlete, dedicating my life to constant movement and improvement used to feel like the only way to succeed. Every day was a grind, and I believed that rest was an option only for the weak. However, through a surprising turn of events, I’ve embraced the power of rest days and discovered that they are the secret to becoming a better athlete.
“Rest and be thankful.” — William Wordsworth
Taking a rest day doesn’t mean abandoning your goals or shying away from hard work. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It means tuning into your body and mind, listening to their demands, and giving them what they need. My journey towards understanding the value of rest began with a sense of burnout that was creeping into my workouts and daily life, a feeling familiar to many athletes.
Science supports this need for recuperation. Studies have shown that rest can drastically impact our motivation levels. This is linked to the intricate pathways of our brains, particularly the release and management of dopamine. This neurotransmitter is a key player in our brain’s reward system. When we rest, dopamine levels can stabilize and reset, making us more driven and focused when we return to our training.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott
The spiritual journey of taking a day of rest involves more than just physical repair—it offers a chance for mental reflection and transformation. It is a time to find gratitude in stillness, allowing us to reconnect with our deeper motivations. The act of resting becomes a sacred ritual, a time for meditation and reaffirmation of one’s purpose.
I found that incorporating rest days into my schedule didn’t depreciate my physical gains. Instead, it enhanced my performance and motivation on training days. Like a phoenix rising from ashes, I came back to my workouts rejuvenated, and my body responded positively.
“It’s not the load that breaks you down. It’s the way you carry it.” — Lou Holtz
What if, in those moments of calm, you could also discover new dimensions of motivation and inspiration, directly from your smartphone? That’s where technology meets motivation.
If you’re interested in daily motivational content that can accompany you on both active and restful days, check out our iOS app. It’ll remind you to center your priorities, even when you’re out of the gym.