When you think of the word "rest," you might imagine quietly sitting with your eyes closed. Of course, this can be one way to take a break. However, experts say that simply relaxing the body is not the only form of rest. Since our body and mind function in various ways, we need to engage in different types of rest for complete recovery. Otherwise, even if we sleep enough, we may still feel tired.

Seven types of rest necessary for the body and mind, as introduced by UKCP psychotherapist Tasha Bailey in the British media iNews.

 

You need to rest your body, physical rest

 

In physical rest, maintaining good sleep hygiene and getting enough sleep are major components. Strive to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and make use of naps or moments to rest your body during the day. Sitting quietly and resting is also a form of relaxation, but on the other hand, moving your body can also be helpful. Physical activities such as jogging, yoga, and stretching that stimulate adrenaline and endorphins can invigorate the body. Exercise helps to lower accumulated stress hormone cortisol levels, making it more effective in managing stress and anxiety.

Stopping excessive thoughts, mental rest

 

Mental relaxation involves taking a break from problem-solving and excessive thinking, and one of the most important ways to practice this is by setting clear boundaries for work. Additionally, engaging in hobbies or mindfulness activities that require minimal mental effort can help. Through these activities, the brain and nervous system can slow down. If mental rest is not taken, anxious thoughts about work or other matters may prevent the mind from relaxing during the night, even when one needs restful sleep.

 

Fully experiencing emotions, emotional relaxation

 

Emotional rest does not mean not feeling emotions. Rather, it is about having a space where you can fully feel and acknowledge your emotions. One way is to keep someone you can emotionally trust—whether a friend or an emotional therapist—who you can confide in and talk to about your feelings.

 

Breaking free from exhausting relationships, social relaxation

 

Social rest is about stepping away from relationships that drain your energy. Spend time with people who invigorate you rather than exhaust you, those who rejoice in your work and acknowledge you. To fully enjoy social rest, it is important to establish clear boundaries between yourself and others. Sometimes, you may need to make difficult decisions regarding relationships that deplete your energy.

 

Sensory relaxation away from noise and light exposure

 

In an era where constant exposure to screens such as mobile phones, tablets, computers, and TVs easily leads to sensory overload, taking sensory breaks is important. Sensory rest involves taking time away from intense sensory stimuli such as loud noises or bright lights. For example, frequently watching negative news can cause excessive emotional and sensory stimulation, leading to feelings of depression and fatigue. By distancing oneself from devices, staying quietly, or closing the eyes to have a peaceful moment, one can better perceive and control the sensory information coming in.

Finding inspiration and beauty, creative relaxation

 

Creative rest is about taking the time to find inspiration and beauty in the surroundings, away from creativity and productivity. This allows for the generation of new and fresh ideas, making it easier to gain inspiration. Bailey said that many people come up with innovative ideas while taking a shower, and this is precisely why. The act of showering does not require creativity or productivity. You can also engage in creative rest by spending time in nature, visiting museums or galleries, or experimenting with new and creative ideas.

 

Finding meaning in life, spiritual rest

 

The reason spiritual rest is important is because it helps connect us to a sense of purpose. When we feel a lack of deep meaning in life, everything can seem like just chores to be done, and our motivation and drive to achieve what we want may diminish. By having the leisure to practice the values we consider important and what we want to convey to the world, we can discover who we are and find the driving force that motivates us.

 

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Our body and mind in various ways

Because it acts, complete recovery requires

It is said that taking various forms of rest is important.

 

Choose a nice rest for the weekend.