7 Type of Rests You Don’t Know But You Need.

We all need rests.

That's obvious.

But did you know that we need more than sleep?

Yes!

Rest is not just sleep.

According to Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a physician and researcher, there are 7 types of rest—and we are missing several of them without even knowing it.

So today let's talk about types of rests along with simple and practical ways to start giving your body and mind what it actually need.

1. Physical Rest

Includes sleep, naps, stretching, and relaxation techniques to restore your body.

How to practice it:

- Take short naps during the day (20–30 minutes max).

- Do gentle stretching after long hours of sitting.

- Practice progressive muscle relaxation or deep breathing for 5 minutes before bed.

2. Mental Rest

Taking breaks from decision-making, overthinking, and constant problem-solving to clear your mind.

How to practice:

- Take 5-minute mental breaks between tasks—stare out a window, breathe deeply, or walk in silence.

- Write things down instead of trying to remember everything.

- Set a cut-off time to stop checking emails or work-related messages.

3. Emotional Rest

Setting boundaries, expressing your feelings, and spending time with people who don't drain you.

How to practice it:

- Talk honestly with someone you trust.

- Journal your thoughts without censoring yourself.

- Say “no” when something doesn’t feel right—and don’t feel guilty about it.

4. Social Rest

Taking time away from toxic or demanding relationships and surrounding yourself with people who uplift you.

How to practice it:

- Spend time with people who let you be yourself.

- Limit interactions with energy-draining individuals.

- Block out quiet time in your week, even if it's just an hour.

5. Sensory Rest

Reducing exposure to screens, bright lights, noise, and overstimulation to give your nervous system a break.

How to practice it:

- Try a screen-free hour before bed.

- Dim the lights in the evening.

- Use noise-canceling headphones or step outside for fresh air.

6. Creative Rest

Taking in inspiration without pressure—whether through nature, art, music, or simple curiosity.

How to practice it:

- Visit a park, museum, or place you’ve never been.

- Listen to music that moves you.

- Take photos, draw, write, or doodle just for fun—no pressure, no judgment.

7. Purposeful Rest

Engaging in activities that align with your values, give you a sense of fulfillment, or help you feel grounded.

How to practice it:

- Reflect on your values and what truly matters to you.

- Spend time in prayer, meditation, or solitude.

- Volunteer, mentor someone, or do anything that aligns with your purpose.

Which One Are You Missing?

Take 5 minutes and ask yourself:

- Do I feel tired even when I’m sleeping enough?

- Am I constantly overstimulated or mentally overwhelmed?

- Do I have space to express how I really feel?

- Do I spend time with people who nourish or drain me?

- When was the last time I felt inspired or deeply fulfilled?

The answers will tell you exactly what kind of rest you’re lacking.

Simple Changes You Can Start Today

Here are 5 micro-habits you can add to your day to start restoring your energy:

1. Set a daily 10-minute “no-input” time (no phone, no music, no screens).

2. Stretch before bed instead of scrolling through your phone.

3. Write one honest journal line per day to process emotions.

4. Unfollow or mute accounts on social media that make you feel less.

5. Spend 15 minutes outdoors daily.

Now that you know rest is more than just sleep, take it seriously.

You can be sleeping eight hours a night and still be utterly exhausted.

If your mind, emotions, creativity, or sense of purpose are burnt out, sleep alone won’t fix it.