From NPR Lifekit: 7 kinds of rest (other than sleep) each supporting different aspects of our needs for rest.

Notes & examples:

Physical rest (can be passive or active)

  • sleeping, napping
  • going for a walk
  • getting a massage
  • stretching, yoga, tai chi, qigong
  • constructive rest position (I’m partial to doing this with my knees resting on a chair or couch while listening to an audiobook)

Signs you might need it:

  • muscles are sore or painful
  • tired but can’t fall asleep
  • relying on substances to keep you awake or help you fall asleep

Mental rest

  • meditation
  • time blocking
  • pausing to follow one breath in & out
  • looking out the window / listening to sounds around you

Emotional rest

  • journaling
  • playing or listening to music
  • dancing wildly alone!
  • body shake

Sensory rest

  • like a system reboot or hard reset

Social rest

  • Could be time alone or could be spending time with life-giving people who pour energy back into you.

Creative rest

  • allowing white space
  • boredom
  • daydreaming
  • spending time in nature

Spiritual rest

  • volunteering
  • meditation
  • prayer