Have you ever tried to fix an ongoing lack of energy by getting more sleep, only to do so and still feel exhausted?

‘Sleep’ and ‘rest’ are not the same thing and Saundra Dalton-Smith’s 10 minute talk suggests how many of us incorrectly confuse the two. Discover the seven different aspects of ‘rest’ that may help you and your team feel fully restored.

Seven types of rest that are worth getting balanced throughout your day or week:

• Physical rest includes sleeping and napping (passive). Active rest such as gentle stretching, yoga or massage can also help improve how your body is feeling.
• Mental rest could be indicated by noticing if someone (you) is irritable or struggling to focus. Take small short breaks through the day can remind you to slow down. A chance to write down the thoughts that are keeping you awake may also help quiet the mind.
• Sensory rest may be required when overwhelmed by multi-tasking, bright lights, screens and noise. Try to counter during your day for a minute by closing your eyes, or intentionally taking yourself away from the over-stimulation. Focus on your breathing for a minute or two in your new space.
• Creative rest can support you to get back to problem-soling if feeling ‘blocked’. Taking notice of beauty around, nature, a sculpture or a painting or anything you find beautiful could help your creative rest.
• Emotional rest is probably required by the person who is always saying yes to helping others. Reassuring them that it’s okay to not be able to be everything to everyone, may help them step away and find some personal time to self-restore.
• Social rest can be linked to emotional rest needs. Are we able to identify the relationships that revive us versus those that deplete our energy? Reaching out to those who provide you with positive energy may help.
• Spiritual rest is the connection beyond the physical to a deeper sense of belong and purpose. To receive this rest, it may help to engage in something greater than yourself, a community of faith or purpose.

How balanced is your rest?

You may find it useful to take out your journal and think through these questions or share your thoughts or ideas in the comments below:

1. Take a moment to reflect on your recent past. How well ‘rested’ you are feeling generally? How many of the 7-types of rest are you addressing for yourself?
2. What small steps could you take to help create a better balance for yourself and a greater sense of restoration?
3. From these insights, what could you do that might also benefit your team?