Mental rest is as important as physical rest. Often, when we think of relaxing, we automatically think of sleeping, taking a nap, exercising, or taking a walk. However, our body needs mental rest to feel refreshed and avoid burnout.
In an Instagram post, New York-based therapist and mental health educator Gianna LaLotta shared tips on how we can give our bodies the mental comfort they need. (Also read | Your pet won’t save your mental health: Shocking new research shows why,
physical rest vs mental rest
According to LaLotta, physical relaxation can be achieved in a few different ways, such as “getting a good night’s sleep, taking a nap, getting a massage, practicing yin or restorative yoga, taking a bath, stretching, and taking a walk in nature.” ” , However, mental comfort is quite different.
To get mental rest, one has to distance oneself from day-to-day activities and actually take a break so that the brain can rest. LaLotta’s tips include “taking a break from work, turning off your phone, practicing meditation, reading a fantasy book, watching a light-hearted show, and sitting in silence.”
different types of comfort
Lalota also told in her post that while both physical and mental rest are necessary for our body to function properly, it is also important to understand what kind of rest we need. He further explained that there are 7 types of rest, and knowing which type of rest you are lacking can help you find the best way to replenish your energy reserves.
Apart from physical and mental rest, our body needs five other types of rest:
Emotional relaxation: Prioritizing and expressing your needs freely.
Creative Rest: Being in nature or doing something that inspires awe or wonder.
Spiritual Rest: Connecting to something bigger than yourself.
Social Relaxation: Spending time with people who don’t need anything from you or who aren’t dependent on you.
Sensory Comfort: Taking a break from technology or bright lights and sounds.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
