{
  "id": 14110928,
  "title": "A gentle reminder: You don’t have to earn your rest",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/a-gentle-reminder-you-dont-have-to-earn-your-rest",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-13T03:50:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/lifestyle/2026-10-13-a-gentle-reminder-you-dont-have-to-earn-your-rest/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Wellbeing is often seen as a goal to achieve, but it can be more complicated than it seems. Monique Pereira, a veteran in the wellness industry, argues that we have made the pursuit of wellbeing far too complex. Rather than focusing on tasks to complete or routines to follow, Pereira suggests we should give ourselves permission to rest. She believes that one cannot earn rest by finishing everything or looking after everyone. Instead, it is crucial to recognize that there will always be more to do, and comparing our rest habits with others can lead to unnecessary pressure. Pereira emphasizes that someone else's routine might not be the best fit for our individual needs. A better approach is to ask ourselves what is draining our energy, what helps us recover, and what changes we could make to better support ourselves. This introspective approach may lead to surprisingly simple solutions, such as saying no more often, establishing healthier boundaries, or simply allowing ourselves more rest. Pereira's journey in the wellness industry has taught her that what works for one person may not work for another. Her experiences with various cultures and environments have reinforced the importance of listening to our own needs. While treatments can certainly play a role in wellbeing, Pereira reminds us that everyday habits and the demands we place on ourselves are equally significant. The essence of wellbeing, for Pereira, is about considering the whole person rather than just addressing one aspect of their lives. She advocates for creating a space where people feel cared for and respected, as this can lead to meaningful connections beyond mere treatments. Pereira herself works hard and understands the challenges of balancing career and personal life. She finds solace in simple practices like early nights, journaling, meditation, and walks in nature, sharing these with her daughter to teach her the value of self-care. Ultimately, Pereira encourages us to shift the conversation around wellbeing from a list of obligations to a more honest inquiry into what we truly need, whether it be a walk, meditation, or simply going to bed early.",
  "summary": "We are often told to do more for our wellbeing, but Monique Pereira believes feeling better may start with less pressure, more rest and understanding what we truly need.",
  "key_points": [
    "Monique Pereira argues we should give ourselves permission to rest.",
    "Comparing rest habits with others can lead to unnecessary pressure.",
    "Simple solutions include saying no more often and establishing healthier boundaries."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Reframing wellbeing as an introspective inquiry rather than a checklist of tasks shifts the focus from performing productivity to honoring individual needs and setting necessary personal boundaries.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}