How Yoga Helped Me Quiet My Mind and Feel Like Myself Again

In a culture obsessed with productivity, slowing down can feel almost rebellious. We’re taught that constant doing is the path to success—but at what cost?

For me, that cost was burnout. I was a full-blown workaholic. Even Rest felt like a box to tick. I couldn’t sit still without feeling like I should be doing something—working, cleaning, planning. My mind never shut off. Over time, that constant pressure pushed me into anxiety and full-blown panic attacks.

When I first came to yoga, I didn’t understand what was driving my stress. I was disconnected—from my needs, my boundaries, my inner voice. Yoga started as a physical outlet, but the more I practiced, the more I uncovered.

I became a yoga teacher, and that deepened everything. What I didn’t expect was that it would force me to meet the version of myself I’d buried—the one who had unresolved trauma, a short fuse, and was afraid to be heard. Yoga didn’t fix me. I don’t think we need fixing. But it did hold up a mirror. It revealed everything that dimmed my light and gave me tools to sit with the discomfort rather than run from it.

Stillness wasn’t always easy. It often brought up emotions I’d rather avoid. But over time, it also brought clarity. I learned to pause, to breathe before reacting, and to notice before judging. This is an ongoing practice.

Most importantly, I began to believe that I am enough, even when I’m not achieving anything. I am worthy of the kind of love and Rest I used to think I had to earn.

Lately, life has picked up speed again. I’ve slipped out of my regular practice. The anxiety is creeping back. But now I notice it sooner. I know the way back to myself.

For the past few months, I've been sharing some micro rest practices in a weekly 2-minute read called the Wednesday Reset. These are practices that helped feel like myself again when I didn't have time for a 60 minute class. If this sounds like something you need right now, sign up here.

In the coming weeks and months, I’ll share how I use these practices amidst raising a toddler, renovating a home, and running a yoga business. We’ve recently moved to a lovely seaside town called Folkestone, and this next chapter is about embracing a slower, softer life.

These won’t be Pinterest-perfect moments. Sometimes, it’s five quiet minutes with a cup of tea in the sun. Sometimes, it’s just taking one deep breath before answering an email. These simple acts matter, and I would like to show you why.

Follow along on Instagram @rest_yoga_

I look forward to sharing with you.

Restfully

Eliza

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