Burnout goes beyond physical exhaustion. When we think of rest, we often think of sleep. But burnout can also stem from emotional, cognitive, and sensory fatigue. Comprehensive rest prevents overload and supports mental wellness.
The 7 types of rest you may be missing
Physical rest
This includes both passive (sleep) and active (stretching, massage) recovery. It's essential but not the whole picture.
Mental rest
Take breaks throughout the day. Step away from constant multitasking and give your brain a breather.
Sensory rest
Turn off the noise. Reduce screen time, mute alerts, and create quiet moments to decompress from overstimulation.
Creative rest
Refresh your inspiration with beauty, art, or nature. Take in things that spark your imagination without requiring output.
Emotional rest
Allow yourself to be authentic. Talking to someone you trust or expressing yourself without filtering builds emotional release.
Social rest
Balance draining relationships with energising ones. Spend time with people who restore you.
Spiritual rest
This may include prayer, meditation, or engaging in purpose-driven activities. It's about connection beyond yourself.
Comprehensive rest prevents overload and supports mental wellness
How to incorporate different types of rest
Build small moments of rest into your routine. Schedule breaks, practice mindfulness, and protect boundaries to create balance.
Rest is crucial but knowing how to spot and respond to mental health concerns is equally important
Looking after your mental health with the right training
Rest is crucial but knowing how to spot and respond to mental health concerns is equally important. Explore the St John WA First Aid for Mental Health course