You may have heard me say before that wellbeing is the foundation of success and that rest is a foundation for wellbeing.
But a lot of the time rest is something we squeeze into the corners of our lives. Sleep and holidays aside, it’s sometimes considered wasteful, unproductive, or frivolous, even.
We’re busy and have commitments. We might think we don’t have time to rest. And the modern hustle culture, where busy is a badge of honour doesn’t help.
Rest is not a treat. It’s essential. Particularly during times of change.
There are different types of rest that we need at different times:
Physical rest – includes getting a good night’s sleep and also things like yoga, stretching, or getting massage
Mental rest – the power of letting the mind settle. Activities such as journaling, walking in nature, and meditation
Sensory rest – putting our devices away and taking some much needed digital downtime
Creative rest – going somewhere new or having a new experience
Social rest – spending more time with people who energise you and less with people who drain you
Emotional rest – having some time alone or with those you can be authentic with
Spiritual rest – taking time to connect with something bigger than you or your purpose
Getting the right kind of rest not only makes us more productive, but it makes us happier. So, wherever you are in the world, whatever time of year you are reading this, have a think about the type of rest that will benefit you most and give yourself permission to savour it.