I do not think it is a coincidence that the first four letters of the word restoration are REST. Dictionary.com states the meaning of restoration in this manner: A return to a former, original, normal, or unimpaired condition. Restitution of something taken away or lost. Oftentimes the need for restoration occurs because there has been a shortage of rest. Out of necessity many times we set a pace for our lives that initially is manageable but after a period of time our bodies, minds, and spirits need a break from that pace. When we ignore the obvious signals we receive we can incur repercussions. If we continue to ignore those signals we can expect that sooner or later there will be a breakdown. God has created us in such a fashion that our bodies, minds, and spirits need rest; a time to revive, relax, and refresh.

It’s important that we pull away and shut down and do so without feeling guilty. I can speak transparently from that perspective because I was well into my adulthood before I could accept that and fully grasp its magnitude. Furthermore, it wasn’t until just a few years ago that I began to learn to put it into application! It is important to note that getting rest does not always mean doing nothing. Sometimes it does, but not always. What it does mean is becoming familiar with what you specifically require for restoration. When we attempt to function at our maximum potential it will never happen when we’re in a condition of impairment. We can try as hard as is humanly possible but we will soon discover our limitations. I want to share a list of suggestions that are helpful in achieving rest that leads to a much needed state of restoration.

Endeavor to learn your body’s limitations and try not to exceed them.
Start each day by reading a passage of the Bible and/or a motivational thought.
Engage in some form of exercise at least 3 – 4 times a week - check with your physician first.
Make sure you are getting at least 6 – 8 hours nightly.
Try to maintain a routine of going to bed at the same time and rising at the same time each day.
Make your bedroom your private oasis - make it a tranquil atmosphere. The bedroom should be your place of rest and sleep, not a workspace or a gathering place.
Try not to work through your lunch hour. You need to eat to refuel for the remainder of the day, as well as relax your body / mind.
Do something pleasurable each week.
Plan 2 vacations or getaways a year if possible. They don’t have to be major trips -- just periods of rest and relaxation.
Train yourself to appreciate quiet/alone time. Take a drive, go to a park, take a walk to enjoy peaceful surroundings. Find out what relaxes you and attempt to indulge in it regularly.

When our bodies, minds, and spirits are rested our overall perspective and outlook is more prone to be positive rather than negative. Studies have proven we are more creative, productive, and optimistic when we have adequate rest. It may not be possible to immediately eliminate the majority of your burdensome responsibilities, but there are ways to successfully manage the load and not deplete all your energy in the process!