How to REST

We are back and fully rested!

Do you know how to rest? What is your rest need? Rest is typically discussed as a singular experience, but rest is needed for all stimulation. Take a look below for guidance on creating your comprehensive rest plan.

Physical REST

Physical rest is the most readily solicited version of rest and can be enjoyed in two stages: passive and active.  “Rest” is often experienced as passive rest experiences (e.g. sleeping, napping, laying) but rest can also be achieved via active form through breathing exercises, yoga, and spiritual chanting. 

PRO – TIP:

Do a body check-in to determine whether physical rest is needed. Signs of physical strain include daily fatigue, feeling “weighed-down”, and tension throughout the body.

Mental REST

Mental rest is arguably the most needed degree of rest and unfortunately, the least utilized. Fortunately, it can be achieved in different ways. For instant relief, whether that’s an out-of-town vacation or staycation, take a break by eliminating or significantly decreasing responsibilities for approximately 2-4 days,. For regular maintenance, we suggest frequent, scheduled breaks throughout the day (e.g approximately every hour for 10 min).

PRO – TIP:

Do a quick review of the mental experiences within the past week. Signs of mental fatigue include irritability, forgetfulness, concentration difficulty (e.g. simple tasks require more time than necessary), and difficulty turning your mind “off” during restful periods (e.g. sleep).

Emotional REST

Emotional rest is one of the more challenging forms of rest, but the benefit is worth the investment because it focuses on liberation, clarity, and authenticity. More specifically having the time and space to reflect, be aware, and express your thoughts and feelings openly. Strategies to engage in emotional rest include asking yourself how you are feeling (emotional inventory), identifying the reason(s) for the emotional experiences and what you need as a result (e.g. release of emotions in safe spaces, removal of stressor, etc. prioritizing personal needs). identifying safe spaces to be your complete self, and getting close to those who provide an open environment to honestly answer the question, “how are you?”

PRO – TIP:

Ask yourself, “Do I have time and the environment to completely be yourself?” Signs of emotional strain include people pleasing (e.g.  withholding thoughts or feelings and ineffective personal boundaries), persistent focus on failures and flaw, and emotionally numb.  

Social REST

Social rest focuses on obtaining love and support from those around us. Strategies to create an environment for social rest include identifying relationships that are fulfilling instead of depleting, prioritize the company of positive and supportive company, and being an active participant in your social connections.

PRO – TIP:

To identify your support, ask yourself, “How do I feel when I am with [insert person’s name]?”

Sensory REST

Sensory rest has become a crucial need due to significant changes in our daily operations (e.g. remote work). Overload can occur on many instance including excessive exposure to computer screens, fluorescent lights, and cellphone screens. Signs of sensory overload include headaches, blurry vision, and concentration difficulty. Rest from sensory overload can be achieved by frequent eye breaks away from the screen through the day (20/20 rule) and have a cutoff time for daily disconnection.

PRO – TIP:

Schedule eye breaks in your phone with app time limits.

Which form of rest do you think will be the most beneficial?