Wellness

5 Types of Rest You’re Probably Ignoring (That Could Help More Than Sleep)

You’re sleeping—but still tired. You took a day off—but still feel scattered. That’s because rest isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are actually multiple types of rest, and if you’re only getting one, the others suffer. Here are five types of rest you may be overlooking—and how to get more of each.

1. Sensory Rest

This is about giving your eyes, ears, and nervous system a break from stimulation—especially from screens and noise.

Try this: Ditch your headphones on walks. Dim your lights in the evening. Sit in total silence for 5 minutes. It’s awkward at first, then healing.

2. Emotional Rest

This means you don’t have to be “on.” You’re not performing, pleasing, or managing other people’s feelings.

Try this: Have one honest conversation a week where you can say “I’m not okay” without fixing it. Or journal without editing your thoughts.

3. Creative Rest

You might be visually or mentally drained without even realizing it—especially if you create for work.

Try this: Consume beauty without pressure. Walk through a gallery. Read poetry. Let your brain observe, not output.

4. Social Rest

Not just alone time—intentional alone time. Or being with people who require nothing from you.

Try this: See the friend who lets you be quiet. Cancel the call you’re dreading. Choose presence over performance.

5. Mental Rest

This is the kind your brain needs between tasks—not just at the end of the day.