Permission to Rest: Revolutionary Practices for Healing, Empowerment, and Collective Care

by Ashley Neese

A revolutionary invitation to tend to our fundamental need for renewal, self-care, and mindfulness by disengaging from our devices and acknowledging the ways that we are burnout, from the author of How to Breathe.

“Permission to Rest shows us why slowing down is so important and exactly how to do so in a way that facilitates true rest and growth. It’s the guide we didn’t know we so desperately needed.”—Dr. Will Cole, functional medicine expert, and New York Times bestselling author of Intuitive Fasting and Gut Feelings

In a culture that constantly tells us to do more of everything but simultaneously pressures us to do nothing, Permission to Rest is a passionate cry for a more regulated, resourced, and rested life. Wellness expert Ashley Neese combines personal essays, contemplative questions, scientific research, and somatic practices to help us disrupt the state of urgency, reflect inward, and relax deeply. Neese examines common beliefs around rest and offers support and guidance to challenge the shame, guilt, and discomfort that often arise when we attempt to slow down.

Neese presents a series of body-focused rest practices for those who are running on empty, such as Cultivating a Rest/Work Rhythm, Nature Bathing, and Social Media Sabbatical. She addresses common roadblocks when beginning a rest practice, the incredible health benefits of prioritizing rest, and a number of holistic resources for developing a sustainable relationship to rest. The practices work for those short on time, but their benefits build the more you practice every day. 

Permission to Rest is both a timely manifesto and compassionate call to action. In her signature warm, grounding, and authoritative style, Neese invites each of us to pause, look inward, learn to feel our own rhythms, and value rest as a deeply healing, empowering, and spiritual practice. This book is a reminder that we have the power to transform our lives from the inside out.

Genres: Nonfiction

202 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 19, 2023

Reviews

[Bridget Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give it 3.5 if possible! Great ideas, skimmed some bits.

[Cherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

i appreciated what this book had to say and love the practical activities she included, but just felt like she went on and on a little. it was easy to read with beautiful writing, and the formatting was great. 3.5/5

[Justin Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book reads like a compilation of journal entries, like a string of thoughts put together following some organizational patten but its depth stays only at surface level. Specifically, discussion remains too abstract and theoretical. I wish it included more anecdotes and stories of others who have lived through what the book discusses. I understand the book’s message—rest is a biological imperative—but its delivery is less than satisfying or persuasive.

[Kate Henderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although this book is very beautiful - I just didn't get much from it.
I found the writing to be quite complex and a lot went over my head.
It is beautiful to look at - just was a bit too overwhelming in content for me.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Permission to Rest" by Ashley Neese is a game-changer in the self-help genre. Neese offers a refreshing take on healing and empowerment, introducing revolutionary practices that prioritize rest and collective care. Her writing is like a comforting conversation with a wise friend, guiding readers through the importance of slowing down in a fast-paced world.

Neese doesn't just preach; she practices what she preaches. The book is a treasure trove of practical tools and exercises that encourage readers to embrace rest as a radical act of self-love. The emphasis on collective care is particularly poignant, highlighting the interconnectedness of our well-being.

What sets this book apart is its accessibility. Neese's down-to-earth approach makes the concepts relatable and achievable, making it a must-read for anyone feeling burnt out or overwhelmed. "Permission to Rest" is not just a book; it's a permission slip to prioritize self-care guilt-free. Neese's empowering words serve as a gentle reminder that rest is not a luxury but a necessity for a fulfilling and balanced life. This book is a gift that keeps on giving, offering a roadmap to reclaiming our time and energy.

[Logan Tunick · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who values sleep and understands its importance for well-being, I found this book to be a refreshing and validating exploration of the broader concept of rest. One of the most striking aspects of the book is its differentiation between rest and sleep. While sleep is often unconscious and passive, rest is a conscious, intentional practice. This insight helped me understand that true rest goes beyond simply clocking in enough hours of sleep. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional restoration, and the book offers practical advice on how to incorporate meaningful rest into daily life. Rest, as the book explains, is not just about recovering from exhaustion; it’s about creating the space to be more present for ourselves and others. By replenishing our energy, we are able to show up more fully in our relationships. In a world that often celebrates constant activity, learning to carve out time for ourselves without guilt is crucial. Reading Permission to Rest has inspired me to approach rest with greater intention. It’s a reminder that when we allow ourselves to rest thoughtfully, we’re able to show up more fully for ourselves and the people around us.

[Heather · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the book redundant. Neese could have conveyed her thoughts and reasoning for the importance for rest in our personal lives and for the betterment of society in less than 25 pages, included the dozens of mindfulness/rest practices and called it a success. 200 pages are not needed to convince the reader of the importance of building rest into one's life.
The book is aesthetically beautiful and calming but it's just too long.

[Corrica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simple but effective book that helps you recover from a stressful life. This book forces you to confront your life and gives very practical and helpful practices to help on a daily basis with stress and overwhelm. You deserve to rest. You need to rest.

[Maggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3.5

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobooked

[Ellie Fox · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really interesting book on the importance of true rest as individuals and a society, with plenty of practical exercises and advice on how to begin your own rest practice and routine. I committed to the bit and listened to one chapter a day whilst doing absolutely nothing, so I hope Ashley reads this and is impressed by my dedication to my rest practice ;)