The 7 Types of Rest We All Need

The 7 Types of Rest We All Needs

Leader, how well-rested are you? Have you or anyone you know ever woken up after a night of full sleep only to feel more exhausted than ever? These days, it's all too common to find someone who feels too tired, exhausted, or in need of rest.

How is it that in an era that's collectively obsessed with getting good sleep and establishing the perfect bedtime routine, more of us are more exhausted than ever? And that includes the leaders reading this: how well-rested are you?

Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith, physician and author of "Sacred Rest" teaches us that we might not fully understand the principle of rest. What many of us think to be resting - sleeping - is actually just one type of rest. But it's not the only way for us to recharge. And this misunderstanding is leaving so many of us more exhausted and unable to gain energy.

She says, "We like the thought of it being simple – that if we go to sleep that should solve all of our restorative needs – but unfortunately, there are types of rest that sleep cannot solve."

That's why today, we unpack and learn the seven types of rest our human body and mind need to thrive. We need these forms of rest so that we don't end up on what Dr. Dalton Smith calls a 'rest deficit.' If you're one who always feels exhausted, despite clocking in the hours, you might be missing out on the other types of rest. Let's find out!

1. Physical Rest

This is the most common definition most of us have of rest. Physical rest can be passive or active. When you sleep or nap, that falls under passive physical rest. On the other hand, active physical rest are activities that help your body's circulation and give you a good stretch. Think of activities like yoga, or getting a good massage.

2. Mental Rest

As leaders, we've had moments of tossing and turning in bed at night. Thoughts, fears, plans all swirling in our heads, robbing us of rest. How can we turn off our brains and get mental rest? The answer isn't vacation far far away. We all know that doesn't always work. Instead, we need to start training our minds to turn off throughout the workday. The tip is to schedule breaks within the day. Take a deep breath and allow your mind to pause. You might also want to keep a notepad beside you at all times, whether at work or by your bed. Write down all the nagging thoughts that are hindering you from resting.

3. Sensory Rest

You may not even realize it, but your body is bombarded with sensory stimulation. The noise of the city, the sounds, the computer screens, all of this contribute to your feeling of being overwhelmed. To get sensory rest, unplug from electronics at the day's end. If you are in an over-stimulating environment, give yourself a bit of silence throughout the day.

4. Creative Rest

If the nature of your work requires you to solve problems or produce new ideas, you know exactly what it's like to be creatively exhausted. To have a creative recharge, you can surround yourself with nature and enjoy the arts.

5. Emotional Rest

Leader, do you have the need to please everyone? Let's be real, it can be exhausting! We all need a safe space to stop pretending for anyone and ourselves. If you have the opportunity, talk to a therapist, a mentor, or a business coach. Allow yourself to be authentic.

6. Social Rest

Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, the truth is, some people energize us, and some people just drain the life out of us! Learn to spot the latter, and intentionally surround yourself with the former.

7. Spiritual Rest

We don't just connect physically and mentally, we also need a deep sense of love, acceptance, and purpose. That's spiritual rest. Connect with something larger and bigger than you. Add prayer, meditation, or community involvement to your every day.

So how's your rest going? Did you go through the list and think, "I sure need that!" If you've been feeling exhausted lately, chances are, there are one or more areas of rest you've been neglecting. Our goal is for our leaders to thrive and flourish. We surely can't do that when we're lacking rest.

If you need some help to dig a little deeper and identify what's not working, know that your business and leadership coach is right here, ready to guide you! Let's connect!

Anna D. Banks, MAS, CHBC, Copyright© October 1, 2021. All rights reserved.