When my kids were young and I craved a moment of peace, I played the "Sit Still Game"—a clever parental survival tactic. The rules were deceptively simple: whoever could remain motionless the longest would win a prize. My children would sit quietly, laser-focused on victory, unaware that I was the true champion, stealing a precious moment of calm. Who else played this game with their kids?
In our current culture of constant motion and relentless productivity, stillness has become almost radical. Recently, I shared strategies for creating space to recharge, and I'm continuing to explore this theme.
We're perpetually "doing"—racing to complete endless to-do lists, always in motion, always striving.
When I am asked the simple, all too familiar question, “ So, what do you do?”, I often feel my response falls short. And when my friend inquires about my mother, I can't help but chuckle and say, "She never sits still"—only to have her smile knowingly and tease, "Sounds familiar!" The irony is not lost on me.
As the holiday season accelerates, life's pace seems to quicken, making moments of stillness feel increasingly rare. Yet, I've discovered that pausing—breathing, being—is not a luxury, but a necessity. Stillness is perhaps the most restorative gift we can offer ourselves.
It provides space to reset, reflect, and recalibrate amidst life's chaos. By intentionally slowing down, even briefly, we recharge our mental and physical reserves, enabling us to approach challenges with greater focus and clarity. Stillness isn't about doing less; it's about being more deliberate and present.
During my practice, I've learned that productivity flourishes when balanced with rest. Like a muscle, our brain requires recovery time. For me, stillness is a powerful antidote—reducing stress, igniting creativity, and helping me prioritize what truly matters. It transforms a scattered mind into one that feels centered and aligned.
Whether it's savoring a quiet moment with my morning coffee, taking a mindful walk, or simply sitting with a hot cup of tea in the afternnoon, these brief pauses restore energy and reconnect me with the present moment.
During the holidays especially, stillness allows me to appreciate the season's beauty. The other evening I watched the first snowflakes fall down, and I experienced a profound sense of gratitude—for the season, for my connections, for the simple ability to pause and truly observe.
Embracing stillness is an act of renewal. It recharges our spirit, helps us appreciate life's subtle moments, and establishes a foundation for a more balanced, mindful existence—extending far beyond the holiday rush.
As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and Intuitive Eating Counselor, I’m here to help you integrate these practices into your life. If you're interested in working with me, feel free to reach out at rachel@livehealthynyc.com