Ever feel like your to-do list is longer than your patience? (Yeah, same.) We’re all moving fast—working, caregiving, building businesses, trying to live a “wellness lifestyle”… but somewhere along the way, many of us forget to rest. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too.

In Episode 50 of the Homes That Heal Podcast, I sat down with my husband Mark to talk about how we’re learning to slow down, step away from work, and intentionally create space for rest. Spoiler alert: we’re still figuring it out. But the process has already changed how we move through our days and how we show up for each other.

Let’s talk about how rest, travel, and small daily habits can help you reset and feel more grounded in a world that never seems to stop spinning.

Why Rest Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Necessity

I used to think I could just push through. A little burnout here, a little over-scheduling there—nothing a green juice and a good night’s sleep couldn’t fix, right? But here’s the truth: without consistent rest, nothing works the way it’s supposed to. Our brains don’t process clearly. Our hormones stay stressed out. And our relationships start to feel strained.

On the podcast, Mark and I talked about how we hadn’t taken a true vacation in over a year. We’ve traveled, but most of it involved some kind of work. Zoom calls, email catch-ups, real estate check-ins, you name it.

We realized that even when we’re away physically, we hadn’t actually stepped away mentally. And that takes a toll—on our energy, our sleep, and our ability to be present with each other and with ourselves.

Creating Intentional Time Off for Rest (Without Guilt)

So how do you begin to create space for rest, especially when you’re used to always being “on”? For me, it starts with intentionality.

• Set boundaries around work, even if it’s just for a weekend.
• Plan ahead so you don’t feel panicked when you unplug.
• Communicate clearly with the people who rely on you.
• Honor your time off like you would a client meeting or important deadline.

We decided to plan a trip together—no laptops, no last-minute tasks, no “just checking in.” A real, actual vacation. Just the idea of it shifted our energy. It reminded us that rest is something we’re allowed to take. It’s not earned, it’s required.

How Small Routines Can Support a Healthier Daily Rhythm

You don’t have to fly to another country to start making space for rest (although hey, if you can, we fully support that!). Sometimes it’s the smallest shifts that create the biggest impact. Mark shared something on the podcast that made me smile: he’s been trying to plan his day the night before. This is very off-brand for him, but he’s leaning into it—and guess what? It helps. He writes down what he needs to get done the next day. On paper. With a pen. Often on one of the cat-themed notepads my mom sends him. (Love you, Mom.) It’s not about becoming a productivity robot. It’s about bringing more intention into your day, so your mind isn’t constantly spinning. That, my friends, is a form of rest.

Some simple habits we’ve been loving:

• Writing down a top 3 list for the next day
• Blocking off “no work” zones in our calendar
• Taking short outdoor breaks between tasks
• Turning off screens 30–60 minutes before bed

If you’re creating a wellness-centered home, these daily rhythms are key. Your physical space can support rest, yes—but your schedule has to allow for it, too.
(Need help creating a home that supports detox and deep rest? Check out our podcast episode on creating wellness spaces.)

Travel as a Reset Button

We’ve also been talking more about how intentional travel resets our nervous systems. When we step away from our usual environment, especially when we leave the laptop behind, we come home with a clearer mind and more creative energy. For us, travel isn’t about being fancy or going viral on Instagram. It’s about changing our rhythm. Walking more. Sleeping better. Remembering what it’s like to just be.

If you’re planning time away:

• Choose locations that support your wellness goals (hello, nature walks and slow mornings)
• Unplug from social media, even just for a day
• Prioritize rest over sightseeing or jam-packed itineraries
• Pack your favorite tea, journal, or essential oils—those little comforts matter

Need a getaway idea? We love National Parks, sunny beaches, and anywhere that lets us breathe a little deeper.

Rest is Revolutionary

If you take one thing from this blog post, let it be this: You don’t need to earn your rest.
You are allowed to unplug, slow down, and be instead of do. You are allowed to build a life that doesn’t burn you out. And you are 100% allowed to take breaks—even if your to-do list says otherwise.
Rest is healing, productive, and revolutionary in a culture that glorifies hustle.

• Take a peek at my Jen Recommends list to see more of my favorite products.
• Grab my FREE Home Wellness Checklist here for more tips.

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Mark Heller Bio:

With a B.A. in marketing and nearly two decades of experience in residential property management, Mark Heller has honed his expertise in managing hundreds of properties, including Dane County’s largest residential communities, multi-family buildings, and flipped homes in and around Madison, WI.

In 2020, Mark pivoted from flipping properties to focus on residential property management and hard money lending. This transition was sparked by a frustrating experience with a simple loan refinance, which motivated him to explore alternative financial solutions. The discovery of the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) through a real estate mastermind group was a turning point. After reading R. Nelson Nash’s Becoming Your Own Banker, Mark knew this strategy aligned perfectly with his vision for financial independence.

Today, Mark is passionate about teaching others how to leverage IBC to achieve financial freedom. When he’s not strategizing or assisting friends with real estate deals, he enjoys traveling, exploring National Parks, and spending time with his wife, Jen, and their beloved cats in southern Wisconsin.

Contact Mark:

HighVibeFinancial.com – Learn how to become your own banker and grow your wealth in alignment with your values.
WISCOrealestate.com – Explore Wisconsin real estate services for buyers, sellers, and investors.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services. The statements and views expressed are not medical advice and are not meant to replace the advice of your medical doctor. This podcast, including Jen Heller and her guests, disclaims any responsibility and any adverse effects you may experience from the specific use of the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for the statements made by guests. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you have a medical condition, consult your licensed physician.