“Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 4:6
Background
I came across the Rhythms of Renewal book while listening to one of my favorite Christian podcasts, Chrystal’s Chronicles with Chrystal Evans-Hurst.
I was drawn to this book as I neared the end of my pregnancy with my fifth child because I wanted to begin a schedule that allowed me to manage my workload while caring for my home and children without tons of stress.
I knew that the way I always did things need to shift so I wanted to get some ideas on how I could create restorative habits while managing a business and a home.
Overview
Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons is a book that outlines restorative practices that we can practice daily in order to live a more fulfilling life and to counteract stress and anxiety. The principles are Christian-based but there aren’t even scriptures quoted in the book.
I appreciated the stories and the practical tone Rebekah used. I also enjoyed the short, easily-digestible chapters and sections.
Themes
The book was divided into four major section: Rest, Restore, Connect and Create.
The Rest Rhythm
The Rest Rhythm is about getting quiet and making room to hear God. Rebekah shared her habits that help her maintain her energy such as journaling, getting plenty of sleep, practicing sabbath and more. My favorite image was her morning routine of sitting by the fire in the morning, cradling in child’s pose and citing a beautiful prayer each morning.
The Restore Rhythm
The Restore Rhythm shared ways that Rebekah refills her cup and energizes herself. I plan to return to this list whenever I’m feeling foggy or unclear or need direction. I was encouraged to play again and let go, to really push myself and to ENJOY my life.
The Connect Rhythm
I really needed this section of the book. It urges the importance of communication, relationships and cultivating deep connections, setting boundaries, apologizing and even showing hospitality (which can seem like a lost art these days). This section brought me back to the basics of sharing a hug, showing comfort to a friend and “entertaining strangers”. Every chapter in this section really hit home.
The Create Rhythm
The Create Rhythm was focused on building your creative side in a variety of ways, by using your hands, playing and seeking adventure. It helped me remember what it is like to get lost in your work – to work to the point where all time is lost. It also encouraged me to put something beautiful and great out in the world.
Conclusion
Rhythms of Renewal felt like a manual that I will return to again and again for self-care and wellness rhythms that help me connect with God and with my own heart.