Burnout, a state often resulting from prolonged stress, can manifest as physical exhaustion, lack of motivation, and mental fatigue. It's a signal from our body and mind telling us that we need to replenish our energy by taking time to rest.
However, rest is often misunderstood or even overlooked. When we rest, we’re not just stopping physical activity or work, nor is rest merely about sleeping well—although quality sleep is a significant part. When we truly rest, we’re reaching a state where our mind and body can relax and recover from the stresses and strains of daily life. Medically, rest has long been recognized as a key component in maintaining good health, preventing burnout, and ensuring long-term wellbeing.
How to Rest: 7 Types of Rest
Understanding the different types of rest can transform our approach to rejuvenation and wellbeing. Each type can play a vital role in your overall health and wellbeing. By finding ways to bring these forms of rest into your life, you can move toward a more balanced, energetic, and fulfilling existence.
1. Physical rest
Good quality sleep is a big part of physical rest, but it also includes activities like lying down, relaxing your muscles, and engaging in gentle movement. These actions can help your body recover from the physical demands of daily life, reduce muscle tension, and boost energy levels. Sometimes, practices like yoga or a leisurely walk can be just as restorative as a nap.
2. Mental rest
Your brain is constantly processing information, making decisions and solving problems. Mental rest can give your mind a break from this relentless activity. Mindfulness practices—like meditation, taking short breaks during workdays, or engaging in hobbies that let your mind wander—can help achieve mental rest. This can help you reduce mental fatigue, enhance focus and boost creativity.
3. Emotional rest
Emotional rest means allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions in a healthy way. It's about being honest about your feelings, seeking support when you need it, and stepping away from emotionally draining situations. This can lead to improved emotional intelligence, better relationships, and a greater sense of inner peace.
4. Sensory rest
We live in a world full of constant stimulation—bright lights, loud noises, and screens everywhere. Sensory rest involves reducing this overload. This might be as simple as turning off your electronic devices, embracing quietness, dimming lights, or enjoying nature. Sensory rest can help in reducing the strain on your senses and can lead to a calmer, more focused state of mind.
5. Creative rest
Creative rest rejuvenates your creativity. Engaging with the beauty in the world, whether it's art, nature, or music, can allow you to become inspired. This type of rest can spark new ideas, enhance problem-solving skills, and bring joy.
6. Social rest
Social interactions can be a complex part of our lives. Social rest involves surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people, whilst distancing yourself from relationships that are draining or stressful. It can help in building stronger, more fulfilling relationships and can greatly improve your mood and outlook on life.
7. Spiritual rest
Finding meaning and purpose beyond your daily routines is known as spiritual rest. It can be achieved through activities that connect you to something greater than yourself, like meditation, prayer, or community involvement. Spiritual rest can provide a deep sense of calm and a renewed perspective on life.
9 Ways to Incorporate these 7 Types of Rest into Your Life
Finding a balance between the types of rest that work for you can provide the energy and clarity needed to enjoy each day to the fullest.
1. Start small and build up
Begin by introducing small moments of rest into your day. You don't need to overhaul your schedule. Even five minutes of quiet time or a brief walk can bring benefits. Gradually increase the time you dedicate to rest as you become more comfortable with the practice.
2. Experiment to find what works best for you
There are so many ways to practice resting in each of the 7 types and everyone’s rest needs are unique. So explore different activities inside of each category to see what feels most rejuvenating for you, and what doesn’t resonate.
3. Be intentional about your rest
Pay attention to what kind of rest you need at different times. If your brain feels fried, it’s probably time for some mental rest. If you're feeling lonely or socially drained, seek out the proper form of social rest. Being mindful of your needs allows you to take care of your wellbeing most effectively.
4. Schedule time for rest
Just as you schedule work meetings or family events, make time for rest in your calendar. This commitment ensures you prioritize your wellbeing even when life gets busy.
5. Focus on the benefits
Whether it's to improve mental clarity, increase energy levels, or reduce stress, keep the benefits of rest in mind to motivate you to continue with your rest practices.
6. Combine different types of rest
Combine different types of rest to gain multiple benefits. For example, a quiet walk in nature can provide physical, sensory, and spiritual rest simultaneously.
7. Set boundaries to protect your rest time
Learn to say no to activities that threaten to take away from your rest time. Setting boundaries is essential to ensure you get the rest you need.
8. Stay open to adjusting your approach
As your life changes, so will your rest needs. Be open to adjusting your rest practices as your circumstances evolve.
9. Share your rest practices with others
Encourage friends and family to prioritize rest, too. Sharing your experiences can enhance your relationships and create a more restful community around you.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA