How can I feel more well rested? The Seven Types of Rest
We often think of rest as sleep, lounging in a hammock with a pina colada, or collapsing on the couch in front of the TV. Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, however, sees rest a bit differently. She is the author of Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity. Included in the book is insight on the seven types of rest needed to optimize productivity, increase overall happiness, and overcome burnout.
The book challenges the notion that sleep alone can fully rejuvenate our energy levels, highlighting the importance of different forms of rest. It introduces the concept of rest deficit, which arises when we fail to recognize and address our diverse rest needs. In our fast-paced, dog-eat-dog, capitalist society, many individuals suffer from chronic exhaustion and burnout as a result of neglecting essential types of rest. Ultimately, Dr. Daulton-Smith identifies seven key types of rest crucial for restoration:
Physical rest
Besides sleep and napping, physical rest involves activities like taking leisurely walks in nature, practicing gentle tai chi, or indulging in a warm bath to soothe and rejuvenate the body.
Mental rest
To combat mental fatigue, mental rest can be achieved through activities such as practicing mindfulness meditation, engaging in deep breathing exercises, or spending time in a quiet space for reflection and relaxation.
Sensory rest
Our senses can become overwhelmed by constant stimulation. Sensory rest can be attained by enjoying moments of silence or engaging in sensory deprivation activities like floating in a sensory deprivation tank or exploring serene environments with minimal sensory input.
Creative rest
Stimulating our creative side is essential for rejuvenation. Engaging in creative pursuits such as painting, playing a musical instrument, writing poetry, or trying out new recipes provides the much-needed creative rest and fuels inspiration.
Emotional rest
Emotional rest involves activities that enable us to process and express our emotions freely. This can include journaling, engaging in therapeutic practices like art therapy or participating in support groups that provide a safe space for emotional release and understanding.
Social rest
This focuses on nurturing positive and meaningful connections. Engaging in activities like spending quality time with loved ones, organizing virtual game nights, or participating in volunteer work fosters social rest by creating a sense of community and connection.
Spiritual rest
Spiritual rest transcends the physical realm and connects us with a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Engaging in practices such as yoga, practicing gratitude, spending time in nature, or joining a spiritual community can provide spiritual rest and inner nourishment.
By acknowledging and incorporating these diverse forms of rest into our lives, we can combat fatigue, replenish our energy, and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling existence. Prioritizing these various types of rest will enhance our overall well-being and enable us to thrive in today's demanding world.
You can watch Dr. Dalton-Smith’s TEDx talk here (10min).
Which type of rest have you been neglecting? Get in touch with Katarina on LinkedIn or email her to discuss how she can help get you resting, working, and living at your best.
