Sabbath Practice Pt. 2

Spiritual formation through Sabbath is a profound practice that invites us to realign our lives with God's rhythms. It's more than just taking a day off; it's about entering into a space of intentional rest, reflection, and renewal.

SABBATH PRACTICE

Dear Underdogs,

When we’re healing from trauma, the concept of Sabbath certainly takes on a deeper, more nuanced meaning. It moves beyond simply a day of rest to become a crucial practice for healing and restoration in our bodies. In essence, Sabbath is about creating a sanctuary where we can feel safe, empowered, and supported in our journey towards healing. This week, we talked a lot about the impact that trauma has on our brains and bodies, so it is absolutely crucial to build in times of rest from the deep work we are doing throughout this cohort. We strongly believe that God’s gentle invitation to Sabbath is an invitation to the deepest healing… simply by stopping to rest and abide in His safe love.

This week, Lauren and Madison talked about the power of autonomy and choice in our recovery from trauma. As we step into Sabbath, know that it might be helpful to set some explicit limits on your interactions and activities, ensuring that you feel safe and in control. What might be life-giving for one person can also be anxiety-inducing for another, so being aware of your capacity and what kind of things you’d like to enjoy will be important factors as you plan ahead. The ability to say “no” and have your “no” be respected is actually going to be very important to how you rest.

Another thing to remember as you prepare for your Sabbath— trauma can make one’s world feel extremely chaotic. Establishing some routines in your Sabbath can provide a real sense of stability and predictability, reducing anxiety. Think of ways to also reduce sensory overload. Maybe as you prepare for your Sabbath, consider changing things up with some dimmer lighting, playing some calming music, diffusing some essential oils, and making sure you have comfortable textures around. It’s important to not just “check out”, but that we are tuning in to what we feel. Using sensory input, such as touching soft objects, smelling calming scents, or listening to soothing sounds, can really help regulate the nervous system and reduce dissociation.

Lastly, I wanted to just remind you of the importance of validating your own emotional experience, challenging self-criticism as it inevitably arises. As we step into spaces of reflection and being present in our bodies, it can be easy for those lies to sneak in and begin to steal our joy. Challenge those thoughts as they come, leading with self-compassion and acceptance. Remember that you are not alone. If you feel the need to implement any grounding techniques, coping strategies you wrote down, or calling a friend on your support team, those things are more than okay to implement into your Sabbath.

—Sarah

PART TWO: FINDING SANCTUARY IN STOPPING

Creating a sabbath practice that honors your unique, individual needs— where you experience safe and gentle connection with God— can take time and intentionality; especially when you’re overcoming adverse experiences. This week, we are going to do a bit of checking in with ourselves, exploring our own deeper associations with rest and what may hold us back.

This practice is for you to do on your own time, at home, as you begin and end your sabbath.

REFLECT ON INTERNAL & EXTERNAL PRESSURES

Let’s begin today’s practice by acknowledging any internal or external pressures you might be feeling as you think about starting your sabbath. Are there any expectations, real or perceived, that make soul rest feel difficult or unsafe?

Gently explore what “rest” means to you. Note any associations, positive or negative, without judgment. Take a few minutes to journal your thoughts.

EXPLORE BIBLICAL REST WITH AWARENESS

Read Genesis 2:1-3 and Exodus 20:8-11. Pay attention to what resonates and what might feel triggering.

Now, consider how these passages might be interpreted through a lens of gentle rest, rather than rigid rules. Note any emotions or sensations that arise during reading.

IDENTIFY INTERNAL & EXTERNAL “WORK”

Let’s take a moment to acknowledge that “work” can be internal— emotional labor, hyper vigilance, managing triggers, the list goes on. Take just a minute to list both external and internal “work” that depletes your energy. Be gentle and honest in your experience.

Now, ask God for awareness of your body’s needs and permission to release what feels burdensome.

SET A FLEXIBLE SABBATH INTENTION

Consider what you need from your sabbath. Prioritize your safety, comfort, and gentle connection with Jesus. Take a moment to write down your intention for your time of rest, focusing on flexible options and respecting your limits.

Now, take a moment to plan one or two activities that feel safe and grounding. Allow for spontaneity and adjustments if you need.

CREATE A SAFE & GROUNDED SPACE

Prepare your space with comfort in mind. Use grounding objects, soft lighting, soothing textures, or calming sounds. How does your environment affect your nervous system?

Take some deep, calming breaths. Ask God for a sense of safety and peace in your current physical space.

OBSERVE YOUR GENTLE SABBATH

Think of how you can engage in activities that feel safe and restorative. Allow for quiet moments and gentle movement today. Pay close attention to your body’s signals and adjust activities as needed.

Now, enjoy your time of Sabbath.

When your sabbath comes to a close:

REFLECT WITH COMPASSION

How did your sabbath feel? Acknowledge any challenges and celebrate any moments of peace. Take a moment to write down your experience, leading with self-compassion.

Now, consider how to incorporate gentle rest into your daily life, respecting your individual needs.

Finally, take a moment to pray, offering gratitude for this time of rest, and ask God for continued guidance and his felt presence in your healing journey. Continue to rest in His safe love for you, and carry the truth of this into your week.