September 15, 2024

What is your body whispering to you this week? Is it asking for a pause, a moment to breathe, or a break from the constant demands of life? Have you stopped to ask yourself, What kind of rest do I truly need right now? Because sometimes, it’s not just more sleep we’re missing—it’s a deeper kind of restoration.

We live in a culture that glorifies busyness and often confuses exhaustion with productivity. Rest becomes an afterthought, a luxury, rather than what it really is—a necessity. But here’s the thing: rest isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s more than just lying on the couch or squeezing in an extra hour of sleep.

There are seven different types of rest, and each one plays a vital role in helping us feel whole, recharged, and alive. Let’s explore these types of rest and help you figure out which one you might be missing.

1. Physical Rest: What Is Your Body Saying?

We often think of rest as just sitting down or sleeping in, but physical rest is so much more than that. It’s about giving your body a break from tension, imbalance, or overexertion. Maybe your muscles are tight, your posture is off, or your energy levels are running on fumes. Physical rest can mean active recovery, like gentle yoga, stretching, or even a soothing walk in nature.

For me, Pilates has been a game-changer. After years of ignoring the subtle cries of my body, I finally listened when a physiotherapist told me, “Your body has run out of compensatory mechanisms.” It was a wake-up call. I had been pushing my body without giving it the love and care it deserved.

Action Step: Ask yourself, What does my body respond well to? Maybe it’s a long soak in a warm bath, a brisk walk to loosen up, or even a midday nap. Whatever it is, give yourself permission to rest in a way that truly restores your body.

2. Mental Rest: Quiet the Noise

Do you ever feel like your brain is running on a never-ending loop of to-do lists, overthinking, and self-criticism? That mental chatter is exhausting. Mental rest is about turning down the volume on your thoughts and giving your mind a moment to breathe.

One of the simplest ways to do this is to take a few minutes of silence each day—no screens, no distractions. Or try a quick “brain dump” at the end of the day: jot down everything on your mind to free up space for clarity.

Walking without headphones or sitting in silence, even for five minutes, can bring profound calm to a busy mind.

Action Step: Commit to at least one “brain break” each day. This could mean stepping away from your desk, journaling your thoughts, or simply sitting in stillness to let your mind recharge.

3. Creative Rest: Reignite Your Spark

Have you ever felt uninspired, like the spark of creativity has fizzled out? Creative rest isn’t about “doing” more—it’s about surrounding yourself with things that inspire awe and wonder. This could mean visiting an art gallery, strolling through a beautiful park, or even listening to your favorite music.

For me, crafting with sea glass and creating art is my happy place. It’s where my busy brain takes a break, and I feel completely absorbed in the moment. I’ve also joined a choir recently, and there’s something magical about letting my mind focus on learning music—it’s like giving my mental gears a much-needed reset.

Action Step: Find something that lights you up. It doesn’t have to be “productive”—just something that brings joy, whether it’s painting, gardening, or even gazing at the stars.

Why Rest Matters More Than Ever

Our modern lives demand so much from us—mentally, physically, and emotionally. But when we neglect rest, we deplete ourselves, and eventually, we burn out.

Rest isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving. It’s about creating a life where you’re not just scraping by but feeling energized, inspired, and fully present.

The Key Question: Which Rest Are You Missing?

Take a moment to reflect. Where do you feel most depleted right now? Is it physical, mental, or creative rest—or maybe all three? Awareness is the first step to change. By understanding the type of rest you’re missing, you can start making small, intentional choices to restore yourself.

Your Rest Reset Plan

Here’s how to get started:

1. Identify Your Rest Need: Take a quiet moment today and ask yourself, Where am I feeling most drained?
2. Take One Small Step: Whether it’s a 10-minute walk, a break from screens, or an afternoon crafting session, do something today that aligns with your rest need.
3. Check In Weekly: Build a habit of asking yourself weekly, Am I giving my body, mind, and soul the rest they need?

Remember This

Rest is not a luxury; it’s your birthright. When you give yourself the rest you truly need, you’re not just recharging—you’re honoring your worth. You’re telling yourself, I matter. My well-being matters.

So, what kind of rest will you choose today? Whether it’s stretching your body, quieting your mind, or surrounding yourself with beauty, take that first step. You deserve it.

And as you move forward, remind yourself: Rest isn’t a pause—it’s the foundation of everything you are building.