REST ASSURED

Taking time out for recovery is key to meeting your goals so don't let guilt or anxiety put you off relaxing

- Eve Boggenpoel

If you've ever had your Sunday rest plans derailed after scrolling though #NoDaysOff posts, you're part of a growing tribe of women feeling the pressure to perform - in and out of the gym. When you're training regularly while juggling work, family, domestic and social commitments, it's easy for self-criticism to creep in if you skip a workout or take time to relax. And with the festive season approaching, the demands on our time only multiply. So why do we put rest and recovery at the bottom of our to-do list, and how can we reframe rest so that our training - and our lives - feel more sustainable and enjoyable?

'As a clinical neuropsychologist, CEO and mom of three, I often see patients, colleagues and, frankly, myself, feeling guilty about pausing, resting or skipping a workout - especially during this time of year when expectations skyrocket,' says Dr Kristine Keane, clinical and sports neuropsychologist at the Center for NeuroWellness (centerforneurowellness.com). 'The pressure to be everything to everyone can make rest feel unrealistic, even when we're exhausted.'

WHEN REST FEELS WRONG