In our society we are PRAISED for working too hard, we compete over who’d had the worst night’s sleep and wear the bags under our eyes as badges of honour, we prioritise deadlines over connecting to our natural, cyclical state of being (especially those with a monthly hormone cycle), we reward our bodies with little nourishment because diet-culture has brainwashed us from an early age that we are not good enough. We live off of stimulants, depressants, and god knows what else just to keep us “functioning”.
BUT WHEN DO WE ALLOW OURSELVES TO TRULY REST, TO HEAL, TO CONNECT!?
I know from personal experience the level of GUILT I’ve felt for spending a day in bed, despite being in crippling agony, I convince myself that to be successful and accepted in society I must live in a constant state of burnout. I see my friends, family, and clients so tired they are making themselves sick but it is always met with “I don’t have time to rest”, or “I can’t take a break”…well, I hate to break it to ya, if you don’t allow rest, your body and mind will force it upon you whether you like it or not.
I don’t find it impressive when people say they work 60+ hour weeks, instead, I feel deep pain for them to know that we exist in a society where this is normalised just to put food on the table. So many people think that their dysregulated state is normal and that it breaks my heart.
I’m here to remind you that you don’t have to live with constant anxiety, depression, chronic pain, PMS symptoms, and skin issues (the list goes on and on and on). When we start to allow ourselves rest (remember there are 7 different types of rest), we start to HEAL.
A half-decent night’s sleep is not enough.
The Seven Types of Rest:
Explore the different types of rest and their benefits for your overall well-being.
All of these types of rest can be experienced through the services that ALLEVIATE HOLISTICS offers, whether it is Yoga, Sound Healing, Meditation, Osteopathy or any of our other healing modalities.
Physical Rest:
Physical rest involves taking breaks from daily activities to rejuvenate the body. Options include:
- Stretching or walking
- Short naps or breaks
- Massages or other forms of bodywork
- Gentle exercises like yoga or tai chi
- Restorative sleep
Physical rest helps repair muscles, reduce fatigue, and prevent injury.
Mental Rest:
Mental rest allows your mind to take a break from constant stimulation. Options include:
- Turning off digital devices and reducing screen time
- Practicing meditation or mindfulness
- Engaging in calming activities such as reading or listening to soothing music
- Journaling to clear your thoughts
By giving your brain time to recharge, you can improve focus and alertness.
Emotional Rest:
Emotional rest involves taking a break from daily emotional demands. Options include:
- Spending quiet time alone
- Journaling or reflecting on your emotions
- Talking to a trusted friend, therapist, or counsellor
- Practising self-compassion and self-care
Emotional rest helps process feelings and maintain emotional balance.
Sensory Rest:
Sensory rest provides a break from overwhelming stimuli such as noise and light. Options include:
- Closing your eyes or spending time in a quiet space
- Taking a bath or listening to calming music
- Unplugging from screens and digital devices
- Spending time in nature or a serene environment
Reducing sensory overload can help alleviate stress and anxiety.
Creative Rest:
Creative rest gives your mind a break from constant production and creation. Options include:
- Pausing work or projects
- Engaging in hobbies or creative outlets you enjoy
- Exploring new forms of art or creative expression
- Allowing yourself to play and have fun without pressure
Creative rest can inspire fresh ideas and new perspectives.
Social Rest:
Social rest provides a reprieve from social obligations and interactions. Options include:
- Spending time alone or with a close friend or family member
- Avoiding large gatherings or social media
- Setting boundaries with your social commitments
- Practicing self-care and focusing on your needs
Social rest helps maintain healthy boundaries and emotional well-being.
Spiritual Rest:
Spiritual rest allows you to connect with your inner self and find meaning in life. Options include:
- Practicing meditation, yoga, or prayer
- Engaging in spiritual or religious practices that resonate with you
- Volunteering for a cause you care about
- Spending time in nature to find peace and tranquility
Spiritual rest can help you feel grounded and fulfilled.
By incorporating these seven types of rest and exploring various options within each, you can achieve greater balance and well-being in your life.
