A few weeks ago, I wrote about the meaning of Child’s Pose in yoga—a posture that embodies the essence of rest, recharge, and surrender. It’s a reminder that taking time to pause is as crucial as the active moments in our lives. But this week, as I spend time on vacation in the heart of nature, I found myself struggling to give myself permission to take a break, to accept that I deserve rest and I’m finding myself deeply immersed in the lesson of rest in a new and powerful way.

In our society, there’s often an underlying guilt associated with stepping back from work or creative pursuits. We’re conditioned to believe that productivity is the ultimate measure of our worth, and anything less is seen as a failure to contribute. This mindset can make it difficult to embrace the idea that rest is not only necessary but an integral part of the creative process.

Child’s Pose invites us to fold inward, to retreat for a moment and reconnect with our inner selves. It’s a pose of humility and surrender, where we can let go of the demands of the external world and simply be. But how often do we allow ourselves to fully embrace this state? How often do we quiet the inner voice that tells us we should be doing more, creating more, achieving more?

As I wander through the serene landscapes, breathing in the fresh air, and soaking in the beauty that surrounds me, I’ve come to realize just how essential rest is to the creative process. Nature, in all its magnificence, offers endless inspiration—yet it does so effortlessly, without rushing or forcing anything. There’s a natural rhythm here, a balance between stillness and growth, that reminds me of the balance we, too, must strive for in our lives.

This week, as I step away from the usual demands of life and immerse myself in this tranquil environment, filled with beauty and fun, I’m reminded that creativity doesn’t flourish under pressure. It thrives when we give ourselves the space to breathe, to reflect, to have fun and to simply be. And yet, I’ve noticed how difficult it can be to allow ourselves this space. The guilt of not being “productive,” of not actively working on our goals, can be overwhelming. But just like the natural cycles of the earth, we need these moments of rest to nurture our creativity.

This time in nature is reminding me again that rest is not a sign of weakness or laziness, but a crucial part of the creative cycle. It’s in these quiet moments that new ideas begin to form, and inspiration flows freely. The beauty around me serves as a powerful reminder that creativity can born in the stillness, in the pauses we often overlook.

In life, we often need reminders of lessons we’ve learned but somehow forgotten to practice. I’m rediscovering that rest isn’t an escape from creativity; it’s a vital part of it. As I return to my practice and work, I’m carrying with me a renewed sense of balance and a deeper appreciation for how taking a break nurtures the creative spirit. It’s in these moments of rest that we can gain clarity, reconnect with our purpose, and return to our work with a refreshed perspective.

So, if you find yourself struggling with the idea of taking a break, remember that rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Embrace the teachings of Child’s Pose and give yourself the grace to pause, knowing that by doing so, you are nurturing the very seeds of creativity that will blossom when the time is right.