Stuck in a rut of exhaustion? You’re not alone. Around one in three adults say they aren’t getting the rest they need. That’s because they’re only focusing on sleep. But rest comes in more than one form. Together, these seven types of rest can help you recover from stress, burnout, and fatigue.
- Physical Rest
Napping when you need it and getting quality sleep are important. However, sleep is not the only component of physical rest. Activities like walking, yoga, or stretching can complement sleep and actually restore your body’s energy. - Mental Rest
Your brain needs to refuel, especially when it’s been active for long periods of time. Break up tasks with mindless activities, like folding laundry or doing a puzzle, to give your brain a few minutes off duty. Or consider meditating or journaling to help your mind to slow down. - Sensory Rest
Loud environments and constant screen time can overload your senses. Reset by turning off notifications, minimizing background noise, taking a tech break, going outdoors, or simply closing your eyes. - Creative Rest
Feeling uninspired could be a sign of creative burnout. Taking in beauty—through art or time in nature—can help. Bonus: Walking around green spaces, like parks or trails, has been shown to lower stress and give you a mood boost. - Emotional Rest
The exhausting pressure to “hold it all together” can take a big toll on our emotions. Give yourself permission to set boundaries and or create distance from draining situations. Having an open conversation with a trusted friend or therapist can help too. - Social Rest
After being around others, you might need some alone time to recharge your batteries. To rest socially, fill your schedule a little less so that you can prioritize down-time. Step back from roles that take a lot out of you and seek out relationships that fill your cup rather than empty it. - Spiritual Rest
Struggling to find purpose or feel fulfilled? You could be due for spiritual rest. Try connecting with nature or a cause you’re passionate about.
Burnout drains you; true rest helps you recharge.
Pause, reflect, and ask yourself: “What kind of rest do I need most right now?” Then start there.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of a sleep disorder, your physician or one of our neurologists can refer you to Columbus Regional Health's Sleep Diagnostic Center for a sleep disorder study. Commons sleep disorders include sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome. At the Sleep Diagnostic Center, we offer comprehensive sleep testing and sleep disorder treatments that can help you return to a healthy, restful sleep.