The Gift of Time: Creative Tips for Practicing Sabbath in the New Year
As we step into a new year, it’s easy to get caught up in resolutions, schedules, and the hustle of life. But there’s a profound gift waiting for us, one that has the power to recharge our souls and reignite our creativity: the gift of Sabbath. Setting aside intentional time for rest isn’t just a spiritual practice; it’s a creative one, too. Sabbath reminds us to pause, breathe, and reconnect with God, ourselves, and the beauty around us.
If you’ve ever felt worn out by the demands of daily life, embracing a Sabbath rhythm might be the perfect way to infuse your year with balance and renewal. Personally, I’m trying to step up my Sabbath intentions. Let’s explore how setting aside time for rest can fuel your creativity and provide practical tips for making Sabbath a part of your life in the new year.
Why Sabbath Matters for the Creative Soul
The idea of Sabbath—a sacred time for rest—originates in Genesis, where God Himself rested after creating the world. This wasn’t out of exhaustion but to reflect, delight, and establish a rhythm for life. As creatives, we’re often pouring out ideas, energy, and effort. Without intentional rest, we risk burnout, losing the joy that fuels our work.
Sabbath isn’t just about doing nothing; it’s about stepping away from the ordinary to embrace the extraordinary. It’s a time to delight in creation, seek inspiration, and remember that our worth isn’t tied to productivity. In rest, we find space to dream, play, and connect with God, who is the ultimate Creator.
Creative Tips for Practicing Sabbath
Start small
Set boundaries
Create a ritual
Incorporate creativity
Seek inspiration in creation
Reflect and give thanks
Read more about this on the Carrot Top Studio Substack and get the download there for free! And we’ve created a zine (mini-magazine) that is a reminder of these tips. Print, fold, and keep it in a convenient spot as a reminder of your Sabbath commitment. This zine is an example of what paid subscribers to the Substack will receive for free in the future. Of course, downloads (for a small fee) are always available individually on the Carrot Top Studio website, too.
Not into Substack? The Zine may be purchase here—
Recharging for the Year Ahead
Practicing Sabbath isn’t about adding another item to your to-do list; it’s about giving yourself permission to rest and recharge. When we step away from the noise, we make space for God to speak to our hearts and inspire our imaginations. Rest allows us to return to our work with fresh energy and perspective.
As you move through the year, consider how a Sabbath rhythm can bring peace, balance, and creativity into your life. I’ll be doing the same! The gift of time is one of the most meaningful ways we can care for our souls and honor the One who created us.
Here’s to a year filled with intentional pauses, joyful creativity, and the beautiful renewal that Sabbath offers. Let this be the year you embrace rest as a vital part of your creative journey.
