Resting to refresh

Dear Village Family,

March has arrived, and with it comes the first significant rest period of the second semester, Spring Break.

Rest is the second principle of CREATION Health®, our philosophy of how to live a whole life. Rest is incredibly powerful. It refreshes, rejuvenates, regenerates and rebuilds the mind, body and soul. Rest takes many forms, from sleep to meditation to prayer to days of rest. This Spring Break, let’s try one that seems easy but can be rather challenging, spending less time on our devices:

• Take a break from technology for a day: In her book 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week, Webby Award founder, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, and mother of two Tiffany Shlain explores how turning off screens for 24 hours each week can work wonders on your brain, body, and soul. Spending time away from your screens will lead you to deeper connections with those around you and more presence to the wonders and joys of your everyday life.
• Reduce screen time for our children: Managing their screen time has immense health benefits. The American Academy of Pediatrics has guidelines for how many hours a day can be on screens. Whenever possible, substitute screen time for face-to-face social interactions such as unstructured play time and other healthy activities.
• Get outdoors! Find 12 ways that your child can re-engage with Nature in a fun and active way!

Over this week, talk with your family and find ways you are going to find rest together over the break. And when rest illudes you, always remember Jesus’ promise: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

In His Grace,

Derek Cummings
Head of School