For so many of us, it can feel as though there are constant demands on our time, energy and attention. From tending to work obligations, engaging socially, practicing hobbies, exercising, taking care of family and friends, the demands we face may at times seem endless. It is important to remember that it is perfectly acceptable to rest from time to time.

That word, “rest,” for some may seem daunting. It seems as though many people equate the word “rest” with being lazy. Giving ourselves permission to rest from time to time is far from being lazy, it is necessary so that we can perform at our best at work, at home and in our personal lives. But getting some rest means more than just getting sleep. There are seven types of rest many of us need to feel refreshed, recharged and rejuvenated.

The seven types of rest are physical, mental, emotional, sensory, creative, social, and spiritual. Each type of rest impacts a different part of our lives. All are necessary from time to time, and taking time to rest in one way or another does not mean that we are lazy. It means that we have given ourselves permission to take the time necessary to tend to our own needs so that we may be better able to care for those we love.

Physical rest means more than just sleeping, which is important unto itself. Physical rest can mean taking a day off from our exercise routines and just relaxing, which can be challenging for some people. It is important to remember that even elite athletes take rest days.

Sensory rest is important because for many it seems as there is a constant barrage of light and noise, dings and pings of notifications, constant sounds from televisions and radios and so forth. One way we can engage in sensory rest is to give ourselves permission to disengage from our devices, be it our phones, our tablets, our computers, our televisions or radios and simply just be. It is okay to sit in silence for a while and just breathe.

Emotional rest can mean reaching out to a trusted other to share your thoughts and feelings, or it can mean spending time alone in a place that gives you pleasure. That could mean taking a solo hike or walk in nature or being in a calm, quiet room.

Spiritual rest could look like taking a break from the spiritual demands we face on what can feel like a near-constant basis. Maybe that means praying or meditating quietly or maybe it means practicing yoga.

We all need mental rest, and for many that can mean unplugging and taking a break from the world. It seems more and more, we constantly are facing some kind of stimulation, whether wanted or unwanted. Taking time for mental rest can mean being away from the world in whatever way feels good and healthy, even for a short while.

Creative rest for some could mean letting go of the need to feel as though we must be productive all day, every day. There is something to be said for doing absolutely nothing. For others, creative rest could mean taking time away from the demands to be productive and simply work on something that brings you pleasure.

Many people need rest from the social demands we face on what seems a constant basis. While many of us are social creatures, many of us also need time to just be by ourselves, especially those among us who are more introverted. There is nothing wrong with turning down an invitation and simply spending time by yourself engaging in something healthy that brings you joy.

Taking time to rest your body, mind and soul does not mean you are being lazy. Doing so is imperative if we want to function at our best and be there for the people we love. We all need rest. What type of rest might you be needing? Can you give yourself permission to listen to your mind and body and take the time to rest?

~ Karri Christiansen, MSW, LSW, CADC, CCTP