As a Black woman in my 60s, I’ve spent decades balancing roles, responsibilities, and expectations. We’re often seen as the backbone of our families and communities, expected to keep going no matter what. But the truth is, even the strongest among us need rest. That’s why Black Girl Day Off, celebrated on December 2, is such a meaningful moment—a National Day of Rest for Black Women to pause, reflect, and recharge.
Rest is Resistance
Taking time to rest rejuvenates the spirit and reminds us of our worth beyond productivity. Rest isn’t indulgent—it’s restorative. It’s about stepping away from the endless cycle of “doing” to focus on simply “being.” For too long, rest has been seen as a reward for hard work, but it’s a necessity for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
My Personal Journey to Rest
I’ve come to truly understand the importance of rest through my experience living with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. When I neglect rest, my body pays the price. Stress and exhaustion often trigger painful flare-ups, making even simple tasks difficult. But when I prioritize rest, I notice a remarkable difference in both my physical and mental health.
For me, rest doesn’t have to mean taking a vacation or waiting for the perfect time to pause. I’ve learned to weave rest into my daily rhythm. Whether it’s stepping away from my work to breathe deeply, sitting quietly with a cup of tea, or taking a moment to journal my thoughts, rest is now a sacred practice. It’s a reminder to listen to my body and honor what it needs.
How to Celebrate Black Girl Day Off
This December 2, I encourage you to make rest an intentional part of your day. Here are a few ideas to help you celebrate:
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Create Small Restful Moments: You don’t need an elaborate plan to rest. Take short, mindful breaks throughout the day to breathe, reflect, or simply enjoy the silence.
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Reflect on What Rest Means to You: Use this day to think about how rest can fit into your daily life. Journaling can be a powerful way to explore what’s working and what isn’t.
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Engage in Gentle Activities: If resting feels unfamiliar, start with activities that bring you peace, like reading, light stretching, or listening to soothing music.
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Reclaim Rest as a Right: Let go of guilt and embrace rest as a vital part of your well-being. You don’t need permission to take care of yourself.
My Plan for Black Girl Day Off
On December 2, I plan to spend the day reflecting and resetting. I’ll start with a quiet morning, journaling about what’s been on my heart lately. Later, I’ll step outside for a walk, letting the fresh air clear my mind. For me, rest is not just about stopping; it’s about re-centering and reconnecting with the things that bring me peace.
A Movement for Rest and Renewal
Black Girl Day Off is a reminder that rest is not a privilege but a necessity. It’s a chance to redefine the narrative that tells us we must always be busy to be valuable. Rest allows us to show up fully as ourselves—creative, inspired, and whole.
Let’s use this day to reclaim our time and show the world that rest is powerful. It’s time to embrace rest as an essential part of our daily lives.