Finding Balance: Resting Well This Labor Day (and Beyond)

Labor Day is often seen as a celebration of hard work and dedication—but it’s also a perfect reminder that rest is just as important as effort. For students, especially, balancing school, activities, jobs, and college planning can feel like a never-ending cycle. That’s why learning how to rest is a skill worth practicing.

Here are some essential things for students to consider:

1. Rest Doesn’t Always Mean Sleep

While sleep is essential, rest can also mean engaging in activities that allow your brain and body to reset—such as reading for pleasure, sketching, or listening to music. Find an activity that brings calm, not stress.

2. Put Away the Screens (At Least for a Little While)

Scrolling can feel like “downtime,” but it doesn’t always recharge you. Try taking short screen breaks: go outside, walk, stretch, or breathe deeply. Your energy will return quicker when you disconnect for a while.

3. Protect Your Sleep Routine

Teenagers need about 8–10 hours of sleep each night. Creating a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule, even on weekends, can boost focus, memory, and mood. (Reminder for adults, we need 7 to 9 hours of sleep nightly!)

4. Learn the Power of “No”

Rest also comes from protecting your time. It’s okay to say no to activities or responsibilities that overload your schedule. Balance makes you stronger in the long run.

5. Make Time for Joy

Rest doesn’t have to be passive. Sometimes the best rest comes from doing something you love—such as playing a sport, creating art, or spending time with friends and family.

Final Thought

Labor Day honors the effort and resilience of workers across generations. For students, it’s a reminder that effort matters—but so does renewal. As you chase your goals this year, remember: rest isn’t wasted time; it’s fuel for the road ahead.