Seven Types of Rest for Busy Brains
Just as our bodies need rest and recovery, our unique brains require a specific kind of break to maintain optimal functioning. As we explore the seven types of rest, you’ll begin to understand how to help yourself recharge and enhance your overall well-being.
Physical Rest: The foundation of rest remains the same for neurodivergents. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep to allow your brain to repair and rejuvenate. Creating a sleep-friendly environment and establishing a consistent routine can be especially beneficial. But physical rest doesn’t stop there. You can also incorporate gentle movement into your day to keep your body feeling good.
Mental Rest: Neurodivergent minds often work in overdrive, processing information and making connections that others might not. To give your brain a break, practice mindfulness and meditation, adapting these techniques to your sensory preferences. These practices can reduce sensory overload and enhance mental clarity.
Sensory Rest: The sensory world can be overwhelming. I know it can be too much for me sometimes. It's crucial to recognize your sensory needs and create a safe space to “check out” from the sensory demands of the day—tools like noise-canceling headphones or weighted blankets can help you unwind. I also frequently crave silence, so I drive my car without music or podcasts to give myself that break.
Emotional Rest: Intense emotions are no surprise for neurodivergents. Acknowledging, processing, and expressing these feelings is crucial. Seek support from understanding friends, family, or therapists who can help you navigate the complexities of your emotional world.
Social Rest: While social interactions are essential, they can be so draining for neurodivergents. Establish boundaries to ensure you have time to recharge alone. Solitude allows you to recover from the demands of social interactions and reconnect with yourself.
Creative Rest: Neurodivergent minds are often brimming with creativity. However, this can lead to burnout. Take breaks from your creative projects, explore different creative outlets, and let your mind wander freely. This can help reignite your creativity and prevent overwhelm. One of my favorite ways to incorporate creative rest is to visit an art museum or garden, letting my mind take a break and consume instead of always creating.
Spiritual Rest: Finding meaning and purpose is essential for everyone, including neurodivergents. Connect with your inner self through methods that resonate with you. Explore meditation, prayer, or introspection to reflect on your values, goals, and aspirations.
Remember this: rest is not a sign of weakness but a crucial part of your journey to becoming the best version of yourself.
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to rest: embrace your unique self and tailor these forms of rest to suit your specific needs. Take small steps towards integrating these practices into your daily routine and prioritizing your mental health. The world will always be demanding, overwhelming, and brash. It’s up to us to make rest a priority so we’re ready to take on the world.
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