There’s an old story about a wood cutter who lived near a great forest. 

He worked with his axe at an unrivaled pace, until one day he noticed he’d cut fewer trees than the last. The trend continued—each day it took longer to cut enough wood to feed his family. 

Soon he became frantic. He worked longer hours, from before dawn until after dusk, but couldn’t keep up. It was only when he finally stopped to rest that he noticed he hadn’t sharpened his axe in ages. Once he slowed down and did nothing, he was able to see more clearly what was needed. 

While this tale has its limits, it can remind us that rest and play are equally important to “performance.” In fact, they have innate value. Yet in so many areas today, the pressure to be productive overshadows our need for rejuvenation.

Service and work are ongoing. Life includes an open-ended invitation to contribute. But if we don’t balance the energy going out with relaxation and receiving, we can burnout. 

In a society that worships busyness and accomplishment, in a world driven by appearance, status and accumulation, rest can be a radical act.

How telling of the times we live in, when the most natural thing in the world—slowing down to rest—is radical! 

Life is a series of cycles: the sun and moon in the heavens chase each other in an endless dance, even as the steady rhythm of our own respiration and heartbeat follow their lead.

A few weeks ago, I invited you to share what helps you recharge. I loved reading your responses! Everything from making music and writing haikus to spending time in nature, from jogging and jigsaw puzzles to snuggling with a pet or mindfully drinking tea.

So, if it’s been a full week for you, this is a friendly reminder to step back. Give yourself some time to put things down, take a rest, and recharge.

The cycle will begin again soon enough.

In kindness,

Oren

September 28 — Say What You Mean: LIVE Online Course

My 12-week, live online communication course is now open for registration. The course offers a powerful, step-by-step approach to transforming your communication habits and improving your relationships. I hope you'll join me!

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