The Five Types of Rest your body needs

We’re aware of the importance of sleep and how crucial it is to a healthy body.
When we aren’t sleeping enough, we see various symptoms alerting us that
something needs to change. When we think about rest, though, we can often just
think of it as another word for sleep. Rest for the body is one aspect of rest, but
there are actually several different types of rest we can be focusing on adding to
our lives regularly. 

Here are five different types of rest you can prioritize for a balanced approach to
wellness:  

Time to sleep.
This is the first thing that comes to mind when we say we need rest. A good
night’s sleep is the backbone of a healthy body, and aiming for seven to eight
hours of sleep each night will be transformational for your health. If you struggle
with this, setting a bedtime and creating a nourishing bedtime routine will help
get you into a rhythm you enjoy.

Time to fly solo.
In a world where we have families, work closely with others, and are often
involved in our community, sometimes uninterrupted quiet time is the answer. It
doesn’t matter whether or not you’re an introvert. Everyone should have the
opportunity to enjoy some silence and their own company. Just five minutes of
complete silence lets your brain metabolize life and can help to nurture your
nervous system. It can also look like a night in with a good book or a dinner date
for one. 

Time in nature.
There is just something about being outdoors that is so grounding. It can be as
simple as walking barefoot through the grass or as intense as hiking a mountain.
Spending more time in nature has a way of reminding us of our place in the
universe. So grab a friend, or don’t, and get some sun on your face.  

Time with your people.

Community is an essential part of a healthy life. If you’re feeling disconnected, brainstorm how to prioritize creating new relationships and nurturing the ones you already have. I like to add this to my weekly schedule, so it doesn’t get put on the backburner. It can be as simple as a quick check-in, lunch date, or a walk after work with a friend. You don’t have to be an extrovert to feel recharged by sharing an authentic conversation with the people you love.

Time away.
This can look different for everyone. For some, it can be a weekend stay in a
hotel. You may just need a change of scenery and a good old-fashioned night out.
For others, it could take an entire week to rejuvenate you. And still, some may
need an extended break from the weight of the world. It’s okay to step back from
commitments or responsibilities while caring for yourself for a season.

Honestly, you may be feeling so depleted that you need to make time for all five
types of rest — and that’s okay. Taking time out to recharge is never selfish or
frivolous. Each person is different and worthy of the rest they need to operate
well.