As a child, Ashley’s mother would often be searching for her — to finish her homework or to work on household chores — and Ashley would be hiding, usually in a tree, with a book. Her favorite book? Anne of Green Gables.
Jaleria always enjoyed dancing and movement growing up and into adulthood, but didn’t have time to explore her passion for it until the pandemic hit. It was early in lockdown that her long “watch list” of dance videos finally became a part of her restful routine.
Growing up, Sarah found herself escaping in nature - slowly exploring, wandering, or sitting near water. She was never taught how to rest, but she naturally found herself drawn to these quiet moments.
Always on the go growing up, Jordan’s mindset was that rest felt like the opposite of productivity. Her first introduction to yoga was as a form of exercise — hot yoga and power yoga in particular.
It wasn’t until Raquel moved to the United States and started her own family that she felt she had the time to step away from her demanding life as a lawyer to really take some time for herself. After taking a year off of work, she began to find joy and rest in doing activities with her 9-year-old daughter — spending time at the library, crafting, painting…
In her interview, Rachel shares that spending time around Belle forces her to slow down — and when she doesn’t she can feel the effects physically and mentally. Rachel says “Rest doesn’t always have to look like doing something. It doesn’t have to be pretty or perfect or have an Instagram-worthy aesthetic. It can be simple, and dirty, and something that you’re comfortable with.”
Growing up in Florida, Michelle Guanaga spent time outdoors paddling, sitting around the fire, and riding her bike. Even now, as an adult, she feels most found in the outdoors.
Prayer is something that is used by many people throughout the world, regardless of religion or spiritual affiliation. Sometimes we use it as an intentional form of thankfulness or gratitude, but if you’re like Elena Petzold, it can also be a form of rest, reflection, and meditation.
Growing up in a full house, Halee Sprinkle fondly remembers her creativity space set up with a sewing machine, bedazzling tools, and crafting supplies. This was a space just for her to escape and this is where she still feels found — crafting and creating.
As a child, Jasmine enjoyed quiet time and reading books to immerse herself in stories. As an adult, Jasmine continues to enjoy those “quiet time” moments, but with a grown-up twist. A warm bath, burning candles, journaling, meditating — and you’ll still find a book thrown in there.
