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When was the last time you made space to wind down from your life?
As women we often prioritize the health and well-being of those around us before we prioritize ourselves. We ignore the signs from our mind, body, and soul that the pressures of life are building up and we need a break. But, if you don’t rest when your mind, body, and soul needs it, your mind, body, and soul will force you to take it.
In this episode of Coffee with Chrystal, I talk about the importance of scheduling elongated, irregular breaks to release the pressure that builds up from doing life daily. Learning how to define rest within your context and then being intentional about scheduling opportunities for yourself is part of living well. When you rest, it allows you to let out the steam of your emotions and flush out the clutter of your mind. And yet, we are not all naturally wired to take a break. And we are not all in seasons where we can take a break without feeling guilty.
Jesus models for us the necessity of taking time to allow your mind, body, and soul to rest. He would often sneak away to pray or be by himself. He had responsibilities and things to do, but he understood those things were easier to accomplish if he cared for himself first. The same is true for us. We have responsibilities and obligations. We also have to give ourselves permission to pause and make room for those things that sever you from the ongoing activities in your world for an extended period of time.
Often the things that drive us in our life come from outside of us, and we don’t give space to what will really drive us that comes from the inside of us. Girl, let me be the one to give you permission if you need it. Take a break. Allow your soul to rest. Leave room for your wholeness. Leave room for your inspiration. Leave room for your health. Most importantly, leave room for more of you and discover what makes your soul sing. You do not need to apologize when you know the pressure of life is building up and you need to take a moment.
Maybe for you that’s taking a weekend away. Maybe it’s staying in bed and watching movies or reading a book. Or maybe it is just going for an extra long walk one morning and listening to the sound of nature. Whatever brings you to a place of release…, take it. Create the space you need to regularly exhale. Your heart needs breaks. Your emotions need breaks. Your mind needs breaks. My hope is that you will decide today to give yourself the gift of true rest. You deserve it.
Highlights from Today’s Episode:
- Give yourself permission to rest
- Take a break
- Create space to exhale
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- “Taking a break to exhale and let the steam out is a part of living well.” – Chrystal Hurst
- “Your emotions should guide you. They shouldn’t govern you.” – Chrystal Hurst
- “You are designed to give life, but there are certain things that will only be birthed from you when you take a break and make room for the new thing.” – Chrystal Hurst
- “Taking a break allows you an elongated time to unwind from the pressure of your life, to unwind from the clog in your engine, and to actually exhale and experience stillness.” – Chrystal Hurst
Other Stuff to Check Out
- Check out Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith’s book, Sacred Rest.
- Take a look at Ellen Faye’s (Leadership Coach) website.
- Want to join my Inner Circle? Click here for details!
Let’s Talk!
- In what area of your life is the pressure building? Where do you need to let off some steam and exhale?
- In your current season, what does taking an irregular, elongated break look like for you?
- What steps can you take this week to actively pursue things that bring you joy and excitement?
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How to Listen to The Podcast
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You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!












Chrystal am just so glad I found you! Since I started listening I am blessed beyond what words can express by your practicability. Always looking forward to hearing these nuggets of wisdom. Thank you!