Why Don't We Talk About This?

Talking about Rest Without Guilt

Paula McMillan-Perez, LCSW Episode 171

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0:00 | 43:50

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Paula discusses the importance of rest and the guilt often associated with it. She rereads Tricia Hersey's "Rest Is Resistance" and reflects on societal pressures to be productive. Paula highlights the need to rest without feeling guilty, noting that rest is essential for overall well-being. She shares personal anecdotes about managing tasks and the challenges of doing nothing. Paula emphasizes that rest is not avoidance but necessary for mental, emotional, and physical health. She encourages listeners to practice intentional unproductivity, starting with small increments of doing nothing, to improve their rest habits and reduce stress.

In this episode, you will hear:
+ the art of doing nothing
+ cultural and historical context of rest
+ the myth of resting until everything is done
+ challenges of rest for people of color
+ rest vs. avoidance
+ reflecting on rest and personal growth

Resources Mentioned: 

Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey

We Will Rest!: The Art of Escape by Tricia Hersey

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