Rest & Restore
We’ve talked about the importance of movement in your daily routine and its effect on multiple systems in your body…. but what about in between movement and work?Recovery. Renewal. Restoration. Rebuilding…. Rest.
Rest is essential to the functionality of our bodies and minds. Yet, resting is not just napping. There are many types of rest, and each one supports us in a different way.
Physical
- Passive: sleeping, napping
- Active: gentle walks, stretching, yoga, deep breathing
- Helps restore muscles, tissues, and internal systems.
Mental
- Take breaks throughout your day
- Journal, breathe, or simply pause thoughts and movements
- Do one thing at a time, go slow
- Gives your busy mind a breather and reduces mental fatigue.
Sensory
- Dim the lights, unplug from screens, reduce noise
- Sit outside, watch the clouds, be in nature
- Supports your nervous system to shift into ‘rest and digest’ mode.
Emotional
- Speak freely with someone you trust
- Say “no” when needed, set boundaries
- Take space from draining conversations or dynamics
- Helps relieve emotional tension and restore inner steadiness.
Creative
- Soak in music, art, colour, play, curiosity
- Let your senses be inspired
- Be in awe, on purpose
- Invites joy, imagination, and new perspectives.
Spiritual
- Connect with something bigger — community, nature, purpose
- Reflect, meditate, pray, or offer gratitude
- Nourishes a sense of meaning and belonging.
How can you bring these into your day?
Morning
Start with 5–10 mins of meditation, breath work, gentle movement, or a walk. Set a slow, steady tone.
Midday
Eat without screens. Sit in the sun. Speak to someone who makes you feel good.
Afternoon
Step away. Listen to music. Stretch. Look at the sky. Doodle for no reason.
Evening
Put your phone away. Journal, reflect, or talk through your day. Read something you love.
Even 5–10 minutes of a different kind of rest each day can shift how you feel, having profound effects on your body, mood, energy, and focus.
Rest shouldn’t be a reward at the end of the day… it’s part of how we stay steady throughout the day. A few minutes of the right kind of rest can support your body and mind in a lasting way.
– Michelle
