There are many types of rest. When we feel tired most of us focus on sleep problems. But proper rest has many forms.
Rest is one of the most vital needs of every human being. But it is very likely that you will confuse rest with sleep. Sleep can give you rest but it is not enough to always feel fresh. When you and everything around you are moving fast it makes sense sometimes to be exhausted and need some moments of real and deep relaxation.
According to Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith, physician, researcher, speaker, and author of "Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity," the answer could be in the kind of rest we receive. As important as sleep is for our body's ability to function, it is not the only rest our body needs and it is this misunderstanding that leaves so many people so exhausted.
We like the idea that it is simple, that if we sleep all our refreshing needs will be met, but unfortunately, there are other types of rest that are necessary for our body.
She claims that there are actually seven unique "types" of rest that the human body and mind need to rest.
Physical rest
It is divided into active, which is yoga, massage and stretching, and passive, which are the hours you sleep. It is obvious that sleep is more necessary but it is important to exercise or take care of yourself two to three times a week.
Spiritual rest
The moments when the mind is blurred, the concentration is completely lost and you just want to give it all up. The key is to take a break from work and reduce the amount of time you spend in front of a screen as much as possible. Ideally, make sure you spend an entire day without cell phones and social media.
Rest of the senses
Although you do not realize it, your senses are tired of the bright lights, the blue light of the mobile phone but also of the noises of the city. Find time during the day to close your eyes and block out loud noises.
Creative rest
Creativity can come from nowhere, but you need to allow it. When you are not working, put on music while cooking or take a walk observing everything around you. Read a book or watch series. Anything that can stimulate the mind and critical thinking.
Sensory rest
Even though you may not realize it, your senses are constantly flooded with new images, smells, sounds, from the bright light of the screen of your phone or laptop, to the noise of the TV. Sensory rest is to take some time to disconnect from all these external stimuli and give your senses a break.
Emotional rest
If you give a lot and no is not part of your vocabulary, something must change. Train yourself not to say yes to everything. "I will think about it and I will answer you", is a good answer that does not bind you. So you can think about it better and decide.
Social rest
When you feel that people are "drying" you with energy, it means that it is time to filter those you meet. Who are the ones who make you feel calm and relaxed? Who can you be yourself with and do they understand you?