What does real rest actually look like — especially in a world that celebrates being busy?

In this special May Bank Holiday episode of Pulse Check In, we slow things down and explore the deeper meaning of rest — beyond just putting your feet up. From marathon training to mental health, we unpack the tension between rest and productivity, and why so many of us feel guilty when we stop.

We reflect on the rhythms of races like the London and Paris Marathons, and how rest isn’t just important — it’s essential for endurance, performance, and life. But this conversation goes further: what if rest isn’t something you earn, but something you were designed for?

Together, we explore:

• Why rest is not a reward, but part of your design
• The surprising truth that God rested
• The pressure of “busy culture” and the idolatry of always being on the go
• Whether doom scrolling is actually rest (or just distraction)
• The difference between sleep and true soul rest
• How to rest through community, friendship, and being fully yourself
• And the big question: do you believe you were created good — even before you achieved anything?

Whether you're recovering from a race, heading into a bank holiday reset, or just feeling worn out, this episode is your invitation to pause, breathe, and rediscover a healthier rhythm.

🎧 Take a moment. Take a breath. Take a beat.

• (00:00) - - Holy vest?
• (02:18) - - Welcome
• (10:44) - - Fastest Marathon!
• (12:57) - - London vs Paris Marathon
• (20:27) - - Rest for a marathon
• (24:04) - - Rest by design
• (24:57) - - Business is a badge of honour
• (29:43) - - Do you believe God calls you good?
• (33:08) - - Sleep vs Rest
• (39:06) - - Rest whilst being active
• (42:14) - - Keeping you on track - soundtrack of your rest
• (46:07) - - Can you experience rest in worship?
• (48:56) - - Embarrassing tracks

What does real encouragement look like when you're running on empty?

In this episode of Pulse Check In, we’re joined by Jonathan Evans — Salvation Army bandmaster, assistant headteacher, and leader of a team that brings energy, noise, and hope to runners on the Manchester Marathon route.

From playing brass for hours at mile 11 to helping young people thrive in the classroom, Jonathan shares how faith, family, and purpose fuel everything he does.

We explore:

• Why encouragement matters more than we think
• How small moments can shift someone’s journey
• Living and leading from faith (not just your own strength)
• The power of showing up — even when you’re tired

Whether you're running a race, facing a tough season, or just trying to keep going — this episode will remind you: you don’t have to do it alone.

Support Gracie Here: https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-l6nw5m9wvq66y

In this episode of Pulse Check, Sam and Gracie ask a surprisingly big question: what does it really mean to age well?

Inspired by the podcast “What’s My Age Again?”, they explore the difference between chronological age and biological age — and how lifestyle, stress, faith, and community can all impact the way our bodies age.

Along the way they share funny stories about getting ID’d, questionable Woolworths shopping experiences, and the mystery of Colin the Caterpillar birthday cakes. But beneath the humour lies a deeper conversation about loneliness, belonging, hope, and why faith and community might be more powerful for our health than we realise.

From worship music and prayer to forgiveness and gratitude, Sam and Gracie unpack how spiritual practices can reduce stress, build connection, and give us hope — even in life’s hardest moments.

This episode is a reminder that ageing isn’t just about the number of candles on the cake… it’s about the health of your heart, your mind, and your community.

Take a beat and join the conversation.

Join our small group bible study, Thursday Mornings at 10:00 on Zoom. Visit https://plexus.church/ or Email Plexus@salvationarmy.org.uk for details.
Abide Worship - https://www.youtube.com/@abide.worship

• (00:00) - - Theme Song
• (00:26) - - Check In
• (04:06) - - 3 Beats Ahead answers
• (10:25) - - What's My Age Again?
• (17:46) - - Listener Thoughts
• (19:28) - - The power of community and belonging
• (25:21) - - Claim the age you are and impact our biological age
• (37:06) - - Keeping You On Track
• (40:42) - - 3 Beats Ahead