The Power of Radical Rest & Restorative Yoga
In the relentless “hustler” mentality of the modern world, the importance of rest cannot be overstated. Rest and restorative yoga are tools available to all beings. However, when we consider the concept of "radical rest" , specifically from the perspective of QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color) individuals/ people of the global majority, it takes on an added layer of significance. For QTBIPOC communities, resting is not just a means of trending self-care practices; it is a profound act of resistance and a path to healing in the face of systemic racism and white supremacy conditioning.
Understanding Radical Rest in the Context of QTBIPOC Communities
Radical rest, in the context of QTBIPOC communities, is more than just catching up on sleep or taking a break from work. It involves consciously challenging the deeply ingrained societal norms that perpetuate the belief that rest is a luxury or a sign of weakness. For generations, folx of the global majority have been burdened with the weight of systemic racism, discrimination, and the relentless pursuit of equity and justice. Radical rest is a way to disrupt this cycle, to unapologetically prioritize one's well-being, and to heal from the trauma of racial oppression.
The Importance of Radical Rest for QTBIPOC Individuals
Resisting White Supremacy Conditioning: Society often imposes unrealistic expectations and pressures on QTBIPOC individuals to constantly prove their worth and competence, much more than their white counterparts. Resting, in this context, becomes an act of rebellion against the conditioning that demands relentless productivity, a crucial part of dismantling these oppressive systems.
Healing from Racial Trauma: People of the global majority frequently experience racial trauma, which can manifest as stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues. Radical rest provides a space for healing from this trauma, allowing individuals to process their experiences and nurture their mental and emotional well-being.
Reclaiming Time and Energy: QTBIPOC individuals have historically had their time and energy stolen from them by systems of oppression. Radical rest is a way to reclaim these precious resources, asserting autonomy over one's body and spirit.
Cultivating Inner Strength: Rest is not a sign of weakness, but rather a source of inner strength. By embracing rest as an act of self-love, people of the global majority can empower themselves to better navigate the challenges posed by systemic racism.
Rest as a Form of Resistance
Rest is a powerful form of resistance in itself. It is a refusal to allow systemic oppression to dictate one's worth or determine the limits of their humanity. By resting, we challenge the very systems that seek to perpetuate our exhaustion and marginalization. It is an assertion that our lives matter, our health matters, and our happiness matters.
Tricia Hersey, founder of The Nap Ministry, has a poerwful Manifesto called Rest is Resistance, I highly recommend checking out her work. She has also released powerful meditations on the subject of rest.
Incorporating Radical Rest
Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion by recognizing that rest is a divine right, not a privilege. Reject the notion that you must constantly prove your worth to society.
Community Support: Build a support system within your community that recognizes and validates the importance of radical rest. Share experiences and resources that promote restorative practices.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your rest routines to address racial trauma and promote emotional healing.
Advocate for Change: Advocate for policies and practices that address systemic racism and promote equity in areas such as work, education, and healthcare, so that BIPOC individuals are not forced into constant struggle.
Celebrate Your Resilience: Recognize and celebrate the resilience that is present within you. Rest is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your strength and determination. Remembering that your resilience may have come out of necessity, not by choice. Create a safe space for your radical rest practice, that allows you to shed the hard exterior of resilience, giving yourself the spaciousness to just be soft.
Incorporating Radical Rest and Restorative Yoga into Your Life
To truly embrace the benefits of radical rest and restorative yoga, it's helpful to make them a regular part of your routine. Consider the following tips:
Set Aside Time: Dedicate specific times in your schedule for radical rest and restorative yoga. Treat these moments as sacred appointments with yourself. This time can range anywhere from a few minutes to hours, be flexible with what is accessible for you at this time in your life. If lying in bed supported by pillows and blankets for 5 minutes is all you have to work with, that is enough.
Create a Relaxation Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable space where you can practice restorative yoga and engage in other restful activities like meditation or journaling.
Mindful Breathing: Incorporate mindful breathing exercises to enhance your relaxation experience during restorative yoga sessions.
Seek Guidance: If you're new to restorative yoga, consider attending classes led by experienced instructors who can guide you through the practice. Check out my Restorative Reflection offering coming up this weekend!
Consistency: Like any wellness practice, consistency is key. Over time, you'll notice the cumulative benefits of radical rest and restorative yoga. I invite you to avoid practicing guilt or shame if you lose your radical rest streak, we can always re-arrive to a place of rest.
Embracing radical rest and restorative yoga is a means of resistance and healing for people of the global majority, a declaration that our lives and well-being are worthy of protection and care. In the face of systemic racism and white supremacy conditioning, embracing rest is not just an act of self-love; it is an act of defiance, a refusal to be broken by systems that seek to oppress. By prioritizing radical rest, QTBIPOC individuals are reclaiming their power and forging a path toward liberation, healing and collective care.
