In a world that glorifies hustle and constant productivity, taking a full day of rest might seem like an impossible luxury. Yet, for centuries, the practice of Shabbat—a weekly day of rest in Jewish tradition—has provided a sacred pause, a chance to reset, reconnect, and truly rest. When I first committed to observing Shabbat, I didn’t realize how profoundly it would reshape my relationship with time, work, and personal well-being.
Learning to Stop
For six days a week, life moves fast. We work, run errands, check our phones, respond to emails, and constantly engage with the digital world. When Friday evening arrives, Shabbat asks us to stop. No work, no screens, no obligations—just stillness. At first, stepping away from my usual routine felt uncomfortable, even wasteful. But over time, I realized that in stopping, I was giving myself permission to breathe.
The Joy of Presence
One of the most beautiful aspects of Shabbat is its invitation to be fully present. Without distractions, I found myself deeply engaged in conversations, enjoying meals without rushing, and truly listening to the people around me. It became a time to connect—with loved ones, with myself, and with something greater than the daily grind.
Rest as Resistance
We live in a culture that equates busyness with worth. Choosing to rest, to step back from the cycle of constant productivity, is an act of resistance. It’s a way of reclaiming our time and reminding ourselves that we are more than what we produce. Shabbat taught me that rest is not just a break from work—it’s a sacred practice, one that nurtures both the body and the soul.
Finding Rhythm in Rest
By setting aside one day a week for true rest, I found that the other six days became more intentional. Knowing that I had a dedicated time for renewal allowed me to work more efficiently and mindfully. Shabbat became an anchor, bringing rhythm and balance to my week.
Embracing Imperfection
Observing Shabbat isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. Some weeks, I struggle to fully unplug. Other times, I find myself still thinking about my to-do list. But even in its imperfect form, the practice has been transformative. It has taught me to embrace rest as a gift, not a reward I have to earn.
A Lesson for Everyone
You don’t have to be religious to embrace the wisdom of Shabbat. Whether it’s setting aside a screen-free evening, creating space for mindful rest, or simply allowing yourself to slow down, the principle remains the same: we all need time to pause. In a world that never stops moving, choosing to rest is one of the most radical acts of self-care we can embrace.
