By Lwando Joko-Sipeliti
At the Boardwalk Hotel, an afternoon of wellness, finance and heartfelt testimony reminded us that being tired is no longer something to romanticise.
In a culture that wears “busy” as a badge of honour, Gqeberha’s “7 Types of Rest” Ladies Wellness Luncheon, hosted by Lucia Mtshake-Ntshona at the Boardwalk Hotel & Convention Centre, offered something radically different: a deliberate invitation to pause.
With the soulful vocals of performer Pinky Bala setting the tone, the event carried a clear and powerful message: rest is not a luxury or a destination, it is an everyday priority. In a world that too often equates exhaustion with achievement, this message felt refreshingly revolutionary.
The speakers collectively dismantled the myth that success requires constant hustle. Instead, they reframed rest as a powerful, intentional act that shapes how we show up in our relationships, careers and daily lives. That intentionality can start with something as simple as a set bedtime routine for the entire household. Yet the conversation didn’t shy away from the harder truths: financial pressure often keeps women in a constant loop of overworking and burnout.
Throughout the afternoon, the different facets of rest we so often neglect were explored with honesty and depth.
Mental, Emotional and Physical Rest
Mental rest was described as closing the endless “tabs” in our minds, the overthinking, multitasking and mental noise that leave us drained. It’s about intentionally finding quiet moments, even brief ones, to recharge.
Emotional and social rest reminded us that our energy is finite. It means being mindful of the people, spaces and media we allow into our lives, protecting our peace and giving ourselves permission to disconnect without guilt.
Physical rest was presented as more than just sleep. It’s about awareness, listening to the body, stretching, breathing deeply and releasing tension. As one speaker put it, “When you’re well, you give the best to everyone around you.”
Kayise Ngqula’s Moment of Vulnerability
A deeply moving highlight came from actress and TV host Kayise Ngqula, who shared her personal journey through loss, grief and rediscovery during and after the pandemic. Her honesty touched every heart in the room. She reminded us that “resting isn’t indefinite, it’s a phase,” and that allowing yourself to rest is an act of courage and healing.
The Link Between Rest and Financial Wellness
The link between rest and financial wellness added another essential layer to the discussion. Speakers unpacked how emotions often drive spending, and how understanding our financial triggers and beliefs, our “money stories”, can free us from cycles of guilt and overwork. They reminded attendees to show themselves grace: “Be kind to yourself, you might be breaking chains and patterns you didn’t even know you inherited.”
Lucia Mtshake-Ntshona: The Visionary Behind the Movement
At the centre of it all was Lucia Mtshake-Ntshona herself, the visionary behind the initiative. Her passion for wellness and empowerment radiated throughout the afternoon. As MC and host, Lucia held the space with effortless warmth and confidence, allowing the programme to flow seamlessly from one speaker to the next. She entertained, empowered and inspired, creating an atmosphere where every woman felt seen, valued and poured into.
A Movement, Not Just an Event
The “7 Types of Rest” luncheon is not just an event, it’s an initiative that deserves to become a necessity. The need for safe, nourishing spaces like these cannot be overstated, especially in a world that glorifies burnout.
Leaving the Boardwalk, the sentiment was unanimous: this was more than an inspiring afternoon, it was a movement. One that we hope to see supported and expanded in the future, so its message continues to ripple through society. A reminder that will filter into homes, workplaces and friendships, especially among women to prioritise ourselves, our peace and our wellness.
Because when women rest, the world recalibrates.
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