One of my lovely GLOW10 clients came into the clinic last week, feeling guilty. She said she’d “fallen off the wagon” with her workouts because she’d been sick.
I stopped her right there and said, “That’s not falling off the wagon. That’s listening to your body and giving it the rest it needed.”
Rest isn’t the enemy of progress. It’s where the magic happens- whether you’re feeling great or under the weather. It’s where your body heals, rebuilds, and gets stronger.
The truth is, we don’t have to choose between rest or movement. We can rest when we need to and confidently return to our routine when we’re ready.
So, if you’ve taken a break, be kind to yourself. Rest isn’t failure. It’s just part of the process. And when you’re ready, that workout you had planned will still be there waiting for you.
Have you ever felt guilty about resting?
5 signs it’s time to rest
- You’re constantly sore or exhausted
If even everyday movements feel tough or your muscles ache despite plenty of rest days, it’s a sign your body hasn’t fully recovered. Pushing through can delay healing, but a proper break lets your body repair and build strength. - Your energy levels have hit rock bottom
Feeling drained before you even start your workout? Low energy isn’t just about feeling tired – it’s your body’s way of saying its fuel tank is empty. Rest and proper nutrition are key to refilling your reserves. - You’re experiencing relentless pain
Persistent aches or joint pain that linger well after exercise can be signs that your body needs a break. Pushing through may lead to injury so it’s worth finding the help of a good Physio who can guide you back into exercise without re-aggravation. - Your sleep is all over the place
If you’re tossing and turning, waking up unrefreshed, or feeling wired at night, your body might be overstressed. Rest allows your nervous system to reset and helps improve sleep quality, which is vital for recovery. - You’re especially moody or unmotivated
When workouts feel like ma chore or you find yourself especially irritable, it’s often because your body and mind are overstretched. Rest can restore balance, boost your mood, and help you rediscover your motivation.