Why You’re Still Tired—Even After Rest

Ever notice that even when you “rest,” you’re not really resting? You finally sit down—only to find your mind racing, your jaw tense, your shoulders braced like you’re still in motion.

This is nervous system fatigue—not just physical exhaustion. And if this is your default, you’re not alone. It’s how high-performing humans (especially leaders and caretakers) adapt to a world that rarely slows down.

Today’s practice is simple. And it might surprise you.

This Week’s Micro-Moment Practice:

Set a 2-minute timer. Breathe slowly.

Ask yourself: Where in my body feels the most calm right now? Then ask: Where am I still holding tension I no longer need?

Why it works: This isn’t fluff. When you scan for calm, you activate your parasympathetic nervous system—your body’s rest and repair system. From this place, your mind and body can begin to integrate and reset.

Research shows that small moments of self-awareness, even 90 seconds at a time, reduce cortisol and support emotional regulation (Porges, 2021).

Reflection Prompts:

• Where am I still gripping unnecessarily?

• What would it feel like to exhale fully—without guilt?

• What parts of me are still in “go” mode, and what do they need?

Weekend Integration:

Choose one ordinary task (dishes, driving, getting dressed) and practice it 25% slower. Not to perform—but to feel.

That’s where real rest begins.