Have you ever wondered why you’re always tired despite receiving your recommended eight hours of sleep? You may be in a rest deficit. For many, feeling tired causes them to think they simply need to catch up on their sleep to feel better. However, rest involves much more than merely being in a resting state, and it requires action that meets your specific rest deficit needs.
Ways to Achieve More Rest
What’s the difference between rest vs. sleep? Rest is a full-body process that, when performed correctly, will restore your health and performance. While sleep is vital to your well-being, it will not be the most beneficial option if you require mental or emotional rest. Here are the seven types of rest we need:
- Physical rest: You may need physical rest if it feels impossible to keep your eyes open. One way to achieve physical rest is to take a few breaks for some deep breathing throughout your day or set aside time to stretch.
- Mental rest: Some warning signs that you need mental rest may include an inability to concentrate or an increase in negative thinking. Turn off your screens or repeat a calming mantra to give yourself a mental rest to feel recharged.
- Social rest: Balance draining encounters such as meeting new people with restorative social moments with old friends and family. Another way to give yourself social rest is to spend the night with yourself and take a break from interacting with others entirely.
- Creative rest: After brainstorming ideas or planning an event, you may need creative rest. Take a break from creating by walking in the woods or reading your favorite book.
- Emotional rest: If you’ve ever finished a sad movie and felt drained afterward, this is how an emotional rest deficit feels. Talk to a trusted friend or therapist to settle yourself and recharge your emotions.
- Spiritual rest: You likely need spiritual rest if you’ve ever felt afloat or directionless. Your spiritual rest could entail practicing your religion or volunteering for a cause you support.
- Sensory rest: In our technology-packed world, sensory exhaustion is common for many people. Put aside your screen and step outside for some fresh air. If you find yourself reaching for the television remote, ask yourself if this will cause you to feel more or less rested.
Schedule an Appointment With Taylor Counseling Group
If you would like to talk to a licensed professional to find more ways to rest and restore your body and mind, schedule an appointment online today with Taylor Counseling Group.
