Do you ever feel guilty when you finally stop to rest—like you should be doing more? You’re not alone. Many of us carry the weight of productivity culture, believing rest is lazy or unearned. In this post, we’ll explore why guilt shows up around rest, how it’s tied to our nervous system and self-worth, and the signs your body gives when it’s time to slow down. You’ll also learn practical strategies to move through the guilt, create rituals of rest that actually feel restorative, and begin trusting your body’s cues. Rest isn’t something you have to earn—it’s a vital part of healing, resilience, and living with more energy. If you’ve ever struggled to give yourself permission to pause, this guide will help you shift the story and embrace rest as an act of strength, not weakness.