Reclaiming Rest: The Radical Healing Power of Napping

In a world obsessed with productivity and hustle culture, rest is often seen as a weakness. But here at The Effect Healing Collective, we believe that rest is powerful, healing, and necessary—especially for those committed to trauma recovery and holistic wellness. Taking a nap isn’t laziness—it’s resistance. It’s restoration. And most importantly, it’s medicine.

Why Rest Feels Radical

We live in a society that equates worth with work. From early school days to adult careers, we’re taught to push through exhaustion, ignore our body’s cues, and treat rest as a luxury. This mindset—deeply rooted in colonial systems—has disconnected us from our natural rhythms. It’s especially harmful for BIPOC communities, where generational trauma and systemic pressure often demand resilience without recovery.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Napping

Contrary to popular belief, naps are not indulgent—they’re essential. Short naps of 20–30 minutes can significantly improve brain function, emotional regulation, and overall wellness. Here’s how:

🧠 Boosts Mental Clarity: Naps enhance memory, creativity, and concentration—supporting your brain’s ability to process and integrate information.

💓 Supports Nervous System Health: Rest allows your parasympathetic nervous system to activate, shifting you out of fight-or-flight and into healing.

😌 Regulates Mood: A well-timed nap can reduce cortisol, ease anxiety, and restore emotional balance.

🛡️ Strengthens Immunity: Ongoing fatigue can weaken immune response. Rest literally helps your body fight inflammation and recover.

If you’re on a healing journey in Ottawa, don’t overlook naps—they’re one of the most accessible, affordable forms of nervous system regulation.

Rest as Resistance

At The Effect, we view rest as resistance—especially for those reclaiming their time, health, and power from systems that have historically devalued them. Taking a nap can be an act of self-ownership and cultural defiance. You don’t have to earn rest. You’re allowed to pause simply because your body asks for it.

In the words of Tricia Hersey, founder of The Nap Ministry, “Rest is a form of resistance because it disrupts and pushes back against capitalism and white supremacy.”

How to Create a Rest Practice

If napping feels unfamiliar or guilty, here are gentle steps to begin:

Listen to Your Body: Fatigue is a message, not a failure. Honor it.

Set a Timer: Try 20-minute naps midday, especially after lunch.

Create a Soft Space: Use an eye mask, calming music, or a cozy blanket.

Block the Noise: Turn off notifications and create a no-guilt boundary around your rest time.

Final Thoughts: Rest Heals, Period.

At The Effect Healing Collective in Ottawa, we center trauma-informed care, Indigenous healing principles, and nervous system regulation. We recognize that rest is foundational to wellness—whether you’re in our treatment room or honoring your body’s need for a nap at home.

If you’re ready to embrace a new kind of healing, start with rest. Your body, your ancestors, and your future self will thank you.

Ready to work with a practitioner who honours your body’s pace?

Book an appointment at The Effect Healing Collective today or sign up for our newsletter to receive wellness tools, event invites, and body-led healing education