Rest Is Hard + A Warm Lentil Soup

Scheduling Downtime Feels Counterintuitive but Could be Exactly What We Need

Author

Shelley Malcolm
December 12, 2024

Hi friends,

The topic of scheduling time to rest keeps coming up for me. Besides continually improving my sleep hygiene—getting to bed on time, increasing my deep sleep, being mindful of what I eat before bed—I haven’t truly thought about making time for rest. Not just sleep but real rest: scheduling downtime or taking a moment to pause amidst the chaos of my day. 

As a solopreneur, I always think about the endless to-do lists and constant stream of “what’s next.” Most mornings, I wake up feeling behind, strategizing how to be more efficient and cram more into the day. Rest feels counterintuitive, yet I’m reminded of its importance everywhere I turn. 

What would scheduling rest even look like? Maybe a quick nap, a weekend getaway with friends where my laptop stays home, a few minutes of daily meditation, or breathing exercises between tasks? Since menopause, my once-reliable health markers have started creeping closer to concerning levels. Could adding intentional rest help steer my health in a better direction? Maybe. Would it calm the adrenaline-fueled jitteriness I feel so often? Perhaps. Could I improve my sleep and digestion? Science suggests yes—but could I actually do it? And how would it feel for me?

Here’s the thing: I know all the techniques. I share them with my clients all the time, but implementing them for myself is another story. Maybe you can relate. Like so many of us—especially moms—I’m hardwired to multitask and pack everything in the workouts, the groceries, the schedules, the work, and then the inevitable question, “What’s for dinner?” Does this sound familiar?

With the holiday hustle in full swing, I’m setting an intention to schedule rest. It might not feel like the best time to start something new, but ignoring these reminders from the universe seems worse.

If this resonates with you, reply to this email—I’d love to hear your thoughts and maybe even hold each other accountable for this counterintuitive but much-needed commitment to rest. 

Restfully yours,

Sip Your Way to Calm

If you’re looking for some extra support settling into rest, I love a good ashwagandha tea. My favorite has a subtle bubblegum-like scent and helps calm my mind and body without making me feel too sleepy. It’s perfect for sipping any time, day or night. If you’d like to try it, here’s a link to my online wellness shop with a discount. Let me know what you think!

Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage and Apples

Cooking has always been a way for me to slow down and recharge, especially during the busy holiday season. Recently, I made this Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage and Apples—a recipe with a longer ingredient list than usual, but it was worth it. Inspired by a friend's lentil soup, I tried French lentils for the first time, and they didn’t disappoint. They’ve officially earned a spot in my pantry staples! I hope this recipe offers you a delicious way to slow down and recharge. Enjoy!

  • December 17th marks the conclusion of the Inaugural Cohort of my Menopause Mastery Method (click here and here to see what the fabulous women of this cohort had to say about their experience!). Congratulations to these 5 women! 🎉

  • From NOW until January 6th, I have limited spots available in the January Cohort of my Menopause Mastery Method Experience (← click to learn more!) This experience provides the accountability & support needed for sustained success managing your menopause symptoms. Let’s chat to see if working together feels like the right fit.

  • I’ve been working hard at producing helpful content on social media! Follow along on my Instagram page if you haven’t already, and let me know in the comments what you think :). Here’s a sneak peek down below!