Welcome to SoulWork Sanctuary, a weekly place to pause with God.

We continue the series A Word about Joy—seven reflections shaped by what my little cousin Cameron has taught me about joy, the word God gave me for this year.

In this episode, we reflect on joy as rest. Through story, prayer, breath, and silence, we consider how joy sometimes comes not from doing more, but from listening to our limits and allowing ourselves to stop when rest is needed.

This episode includes:

1. An opening prayer
2. Guided breathwork focused on rest and release
3. A reflection on joy, fatigue, and faithful stopping
4. SoulWork prompts for personal reflection
5. A gentle SoulWork practice for the week ahead
6. A closing blessing

SoulWork Prompts

1. Where in your life have you pushed past the joy that might be found in rest?
2. What might become possible if you practiced joy as rest more often?
3. How does joy shift when it’s not about what you do, but about what you stop doing?
4. What signals does your body give when it’s time to rest—and how do you usually respond?

SoulWork Practice for the Week

1. This week, choose a time and a place to rest.
2. If possible, take a 30-minute nap—or step away from something that has you blocked or overwhelmed for 30 minutes.
3. Afterward, write one line about how that rest felt and what it revealed about joy.

Thank you for pausing here.

May joy meet you in the rest you allow yourself.

If this episode met you in a meaningful way, you’re welcome to receive Notes from the Sanctuary—quiet reflections, writing prompts, and occasional updates shared as an extension of this space.

If you’d like to help sustain this work, you’re welcome to support it here.

Disclaimer: The content shared on the SoulWork Sanctuary podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. While I am an ordained minister and trained spiritual director, I am not a licensed therapist or medical professional. This podcast does not provide medical or mental health advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional care. Please seek support from a qualified provider if needed.