We all need more rest, but the good news is there are seven types of rest! You read that right – seven types.
When we hear “get some rest,” we think it means “get some sleep”, right?
Well, wrong.
Sleep actually falls under the category of Physical Rest. Other types of physical rest include napping, yoga, stretching and massage.
When I first read that there are seven types of rest, it was music to my ears. As students, it often feels like we could all do with less stress, less things to do, and more sleep.
Each semester often starts off cosy and warm, slowly gets steamy and, as we know, the end is piping hot. Everything is wild! The final submissions of assessments or walking out after your final exam is like diving in the ocean on a 40-degree day…it’s a relief.
Rest also offers relief and as I mentioned above. I’m here to introduce the seven types of rest that every person needs, and as Dalton-Smith says,
“rest should equal restoration in seven key areas of your life…”
Here are seven different types of rest with examples:
1. Physical Rest
Examples are sleeping, napping, yoga, stretching and massage.
2. Mental Rest
Examples include scheduling short breaks in the day, reminders to slow down the pace, or using a notepad to jot down your thoughts and feelings.
3. Sensory Rest
Such as closing your eyes for a minute through the day, or intentional unplugging from technology at the end of the day.
4. Creative Rest
Means allocating time to spend in the natural world, you could turn your workspace or study space into an inspiring space for yourself.
5. Spiritual Rest
This could be meditation, community involvement, or working on projects of interest with others.
6. Emotional Rest
Examples include giving yourself space for free expression, journaling, or leaning into the courage to be authentic in your feelings.
7. Social Rest
Consider, “Who fills my cup up, and who empties it?” “Do I need a bit more time to myself this week or month?” “Who is replenishing my energy, and who is taking my energy away?”
These are only some examples of each type of rest. There are others, and there will be versions of each that suit each of us, individually.
Take and trial some of the examples above or take more time to explore more examples. If you take away one thing from this article, let it be this. Being a student can be difficult and restless work – offer yourself the space and time to rest in more ways than just one.