R&R. Rest and Recuperation/Relaxation/Recreation… your choice. The original is actually rest and recuperation, dating back as far as 1904 in England’s military. The idea today is 15 days of downtime for 12 months of active service.
Doesn’t it feel like even civilians are at war sometimes? War to protect our family, war against the screen, war against the complete unraveling of our values. If you stand up for and believe in something, you’re at war. If you’re a compulsive optimist or pessimist, you’re at war – against your prevailing antagonist. Christians face the battlefield daily.
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 ESV
In this infamous chapter of the bible, Peter goes on to explain the tools or “armor of God.” If we aren’t rested, then how can we be prepared for the battle? How will we be able to “suit up?” We all need rest. Jesus rested. God, by example, made it a point to rest and made sure it was immortalized in The Word. We know the benefits of rest. The more research dollars are spent, the more we are told – it matters – more than anyone ever thought.
Even if you won’t find yourself on a boat or drinking ice tea beachside, there is still hope for rest. Recuperation follows suit. Webster’s defines Recuperation: to regain a former state or condition; especially : to recover health or strength.
Doesn’t that sound like a tall glass of ice water in the desert? Yes please. Sign me up. We can’t get there without rest. Take a little time. Take a catnap, a silent walk, a hammock swing, a seat by the pond.
At Kindred Life, our counselors and life coaches strive to teach healthy habits that contribute to good parenting: Rest. Hydration. Environmental Wellness. Boundaries. Caregivers need these things like oxygen. Everyone knows you have to put the mask on yourself before you help the child or grandparent in the seat next to you. Here is encouragement to use this gorgeous weather to get claim your own R&R!