Rest Intentionally

If you’re anything like me, you want to relax but your brain goes 100 mph!

When God created the earth and all of creation, He took the seventh day and rested. God didn’t need the rest, but He knew that we, as humans, do. He was setting an example for us to refresh and renew.

I have fibromyalgia, and I’ve noticed that if I take a Sabbath and truly rest one day a week, my life is so much better for the next week. My body and mind feel far less worn down when I take this time for myself.

I’m finding that I have to be very intentional with this day of rest. This weekend, I made up my mind that Saturday would be my day. I spent the morning cleaning (which, for me, is a form of mental therapy, especially in my messy home), listening to music and podcasts, and spending time here at the backyard farm. On the way to my local café for a little outing, I got two phone calls asking me to go do something. In that moment, I had to decide to protect my rest day and say no. “No” is not always easy, but it is necessary.

I put together a weekend checklist to help me be more intentional with my rest day! This day might be a Saturday, or it might fall midweek depending on my schedule. I wanted to share my list with you to encourage you to rest well and maybe inspire you to create your own intentional rest list.


🌿 Rejuvenation Ritual: Fire • Water • Warmth

Preparation (Day Before or Morning Of)

  • ✅ Pick your water spot (lake, river, pond, or backyard fountain)
  • ✅ Gather bath items: epsom salts, essential oils (lavender/chamomile/eucalyptus), candles, towel, robe
  • ✅ Prep snacks & drinks: water, coffee, cocoa, fruit, pastries, or a simple picnic
  • ✅ Gather fire pit supplies: wood, matches/lighter, blanket, comfy chair
  • ✅ Set phone to Do Not Disturb mode for the day

Morning – Gentle Start

  • Make a slow breakfast (warm drink + something light)
  • 🚶‍♀️ Step outside for fresh air, even just 5 minutes
  • 🎶 Put on a calm playlist or nature sounds

Late Morning – Body & Mind Reset

  • 🛁 Take a hot bath with epsom salts and candles
  • 💆‍♀️ Optional: face mask or scalp massage
  • 🧘‍♀️ Sit quietly for 5 minutes focusing on breathing. I love God Talks by Ed Rush. He has podcast that are 15 minutes of breathing and changing our mindsets with God!

Afternoon – Water & Peace

  • 🪑 Sit by a body of water
  • 📖 Read, journal, or simply watch the ripples maybe even fish!
  • 🥪 Have your picnic or snacks slowly and mindfully

Evening – Firelight & Reflection

  • 🔥 Light the fire pit as the sun sets
  • ☕ Sip something warm while bundled in a blanket! Unless it’s hot out lol then cold tea!
  • 📓 Write down 3 things you’re grateful for from the day
  • 🌌 End with screen-free quiet before bed

I hope that you can find you a day this week to rest, refresh and renew!

One of my favorite relaxing moments is by a fire

Thank you for taking time to read my blog!

Cassie Gilman

Dream Catcher 3:20

Ephesians 3:20

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