“When we make time for all kinds of rest, we stop operating on empty—and start living with more energy and intention.” — Dr. Alexa Davis
Getting quality sleep is important—but it’s not the whole story. Real rest goes beyond just closing your eyes at night. It’s about nurturing every part of who you are—body, mind, and spirit.
By recognizing where you’re depleted and intentionally choosing the right kind of rest, you can live more fully, think more clearly, and feel more like yourself again.
Most of us use the terms “rest” and “sleep” like they mean the same thing. But the truth is, they’re not interchangeable. Sleep is a natural, essential process where your brain and body repair and recharge. During sleep, your brain consolidates memories, your muscles heal, and your organs reset. But here’s the kicker—plenty of people still feel drained even after a full night’s sleep. Can you relate?
While physical sleep is a key part of resting, it’s just one piece of a much larger picture that also includes mental, emotional, social, sensory and creative rest components.
Mental and emotional fatigue can be just as harmful as physical exhaustion. If we don’t take time to restore ourselves holistically, it can impact everything—from our mood to our immune system. When we learn how to balance all types of rest with sleep, we can reduce stress and improve our overall well-being in a big way.
How to get Mental Rest:
- Take short breaks during work.
- Offload thoughts by journaling or using a task list.
- Limit multitasking and screen clutter.
- Practice mindfulness or go for a calming walk.
How to get Emotional Rest:
- Surround yourself with people who accept the real you.
- Set boundaries and give yourself permission to decline things.
- Journal your thoughts or talk to a therapist.
How to get Social Rest:
- Spend time with uplifting people.
- Limit interactions with those who drain your energy.
- Give yourself permission for solitude when needed.
- Prioritize quality over quantity in social relationships.
How to get Sensory Rest
- Take screen breaks and turn off non-essential notifications.
- Spend time in silence or low-stimulation environments.
- Close your eyes in a quiet space for a few minutes.
- Spend time in nature or listen to calming sounds.
How to get Creative Rest
- Spend time in nature.
- Explore art, music, or other creative outlets.
- Take a break from problem-solving.
- Try a fun creative hobby—no pressure to be perfect.
How to get Spiritual Rest
- Engage in practices that align with your beliefs—prayer, meditation, journaling, or spiritual reading.
- Volunteer or be of service to others.
- Spend time reflecting on what brings you purpose.
Give it a try – pick one type of rest and spend a week focused on practices that will give you such rest. Take note of how you feel when you start and what you notice at the end of the week. Share your thoughts to help others.
