The body signals the need for rest and recovery through various symptoms, including persistent fatigue, muscle soreness, and decreased performance. Additionally, mental signs such as lack of focus or motivation can indicate overtraining. Physical signals like increased heart rate and poor sleep quality also suggest that the body requires downtime. Listening to these signals is vital to prevent injury and facilitate optimal recovery processes. Prioritizing rest allows the body to repair tissues, replenish energy stores, and ultimately improve athletic performance.