All about Rest…
What has rest become in the digital age? What is required to restore vitality and vigour when we are feeling depleted and drained? How is it that we have become disconnected from our natural state of ease?
It seems that without a conscious decision to stop, pause or step back, modern life has a way of pulling us in, dazzling us with lights, sounds, information and unparalleled access to constant stimulation- and it can be hard to resist.
We are learning -both from a neuroscience perspective and from lived experience, the effect of this constant bombardment and the presence of increased stress on our nervous systems and our lives. Burnout, overwhelm, chronic fatigue and overstimulation is a disconnect in the mind-body relationship.
The racing, uneasy mind, sleeplessness, irritability, headaches, chronic pain, IBS, anxiety, depression, heart conditions, obesity…. the list is a growing one.
But how can we turn the tide, step back and turn inwards? Firstly, it can help to take a look at what REST means. The different kinds of rest and what we as individuals most need. Take a look at the list here - with compassion, and highlight for yourself the domains which most need your attention.
Physical rest - Sleep is vital for the cellular repair of the body, it is when we process the events of the day, and when the glymphatic system (the lymphatics of the brain and spinal cord) to remove toxins and ‘clean’ the brain. Physical rest may also be active, like engaging in yoga, tai chi, massage, a gentle walk or your favourite non exertional hobby.
Emotional rest - Can be recognising and taking a break from situations or relationships that don’t allow us to express ourselves, or be our authentic selves. It might include taking time to process emotional reactions without judgement, be aware of people pleasing tendencies and creating boundaries.
Social rest - Is closely related to emotional rest, whereby we notice people and situations that are supportive and uplifting (energy building) and those that are draining and stressful (energy depleting). Noticing can then lead to spending more time in the energy building relationships. This could include virtual and social media situations.
Sensory rest - We have many ways of sensing the outside world, sight, taste, smell, hearing and touch and increasingly we are bombarded by these forms of stimulation. Often they are derived from unnatural or chemical means (artificial light, food additives, input outside of our natural circadian rhythms). Sensory rest involves situations that remove these inputs as much as possible.
Spiritual rest - Is recognising your relationship to the world around you and your place within it. Engaging with activities that promote connectedness, perspective and compassion for self and others.
Creative rest - Is taking a break from problem solving type thinking and behaviour.It can involve immersing yourself in environments that don’t require your brainstorming input. Being around things that inspire awe and wonder - art, music, nature or whatever floats your boat will support this.
Mental rest - Taking a break from mentally draining tasks - this can be achieved by taking frequent short breaks during work, study or other mentally taxing situations. Journalling and using a daily diary for lists can let the mind settle for some. Bringing awareness to the present moment, “being where your feet are” taking three slow breaths or a quick walk in nature can all be helpful in reducing mental load.