EMBODIED LIVING: WHOLE BODY REST

I’ll never forget how deeply I rested in the presence of God when I surrendered on an exercise mat near the end of an embodied movement class. I don’t recall ever resting that deeply while still being awake. The overall experience inspired me to become a Christ-centered movement instructor, teaching Stretch, Strengthen, and Relax classes. Using a combination of movement and stillness, I wanted to guide others into resting the mind, body, soul, and spirit with hearts focused on Christ.

What does rest mean for you: sleep, stillness, surrender, silence? Biblically, it is also a peaceful spirit quietly trusting God.

In Exodus 33, we see that trust in God is a precursor to rest. When Moses expressed trepidation about his assignment to lead the Israelites, God assured him in verse 14, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Let’s repeat: “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” If you like, take a long, slow inhalation while internally saying, “My Presence will go with you.” As you exhale, internally say, “and I will give you rest.” I pray that these words from God himself will rest deeply in every part of your being.

This verse is so encouraging to me; it reminds me that in whatever God calls us to do, whether we feel trepidation about it or not, he will go with us and give us rest. I recently experienced a shift from restlessness to restfulness after trusting God to help me carry out an assignment he had put on my heart.

Aside from task-related rest, some find it challenging to slow down to tune in with God. In this case, a bit of movement may help. I liken this to school recess. When children are given breaks to move their bodies (preferably outdoors), they typically focus better when they return to the classroom for learning. It’s the same for many adults. When we move our bodies, if only briefly, a shift can occur, helping us relax and rest in Christ with a peaceful spirit quietly trusting God.

Dear God of rest, thank you for allowing me to rest and reset in your presence, soaking in your peace. May my rest be a spiritual retreat with you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Throughout this day: Repeat the breath prayer above: “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). Say it aloud, breathe it in and out, and trust God to do exactly as he says. To help you relax, you may like to rest on a blanket on the grass or on your recliner or bed, intentionally setting up your space in a way that feels peaceful for you. Then, bask in your date with our God of rest, who is the best!