If you try to prioritize your rest, you will probably find that there are different types of rest that suit everyone. This theory was formulated by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, physician, researcher, speaker and author of Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity. There are seven types of rest including mental, emotional, creative, social and physical rest.

It is important not to overlook the lesser-known types, including emotional rest. Because, let’s be honest: holding back your emotions, whether to please others or simply because you feel unable to express them, takes a lot of energy.

What do we mean when we talk about emotional rest?

True emotional rest is about processing those feelings and feeling like you can share them with those around you. That is, be your true self.

“Emotional rest refers to taking deliberate steps to recharge and rejuvenate our emotional energy,” says Dr Rina Bajaj, consulting psychologist. “It involves taking time to focus on our emotional well-being and engaging in activities that help us release stress and tension and regain a sense of inner peace and balance.”

Because it is so individualized, emotional rest can take many forms. As explained by Dr. Bajaj, can include activities such as meditation, mindfulness or yoga, which can help calm the mind and reduce stress. Apart from these, spending time in nature, engaging in creative pursuits or spending time with loved ones are equally helpful.

Ultimately, the key aspect of emotional rest is that it is necessary and focuses on recharging our emotional batteries. “It’s about taking a break from the stress and demands of everyday life in order to prioritize our emotional well-being.”

Why is emotional rest important to our health?

Apart from the obvious, that it is no fun to be stressed, stressed and busy all the time, it allows us to recharge and renew our emotional energy. Just as our bodies need rest and recovery after physical activity, so do our emotions, they need rest to recover from the stress and challenges of everyday life.

“When we experience emotional exhaustion, we can feel overwhelmed, irritable and have trouble concentrating,” explains Dr Bajaj. “This can lead to reduced productivity, difficulty making decisions and can also affect our relationships with others.” Emotional rest, however, helps replenish our emotional energy, allowing us to feel more positive, refreshed and resilient, something we all need.

In addition, emotional rest can help us manage our emotions better and respond more effectively to difficult situations. It can also help us better understand our emotional needs and develop strategies to cope with stress and adversity.

How can we rest emotionally?

“One of the most important steps to more emotional rest is to set clear boundaries around your time and energy,” she advises. “This means learning to say no to obligations that drain your emotional energy and making time in your schedule for activities that renew you.”

Indeed, just as important, is to engage in activities that give you joy. “Doing things that make you happy is an important part of emotional rest,” she explains. “Whether you’re spending time with friends, taking up a hobby, or just taking a relaxing bath, find time for activities that make you happy and help you recharge.”

For optimal emotional rest, you should also disconnect from technology and practice self-compassion. “Self-compassion involves treating yourself with kindness and understanding and accepting yourself as you are,” says Dr Bajaj. Taking a digital detox or setting aside specific times each day can help you disconnect and focus on restorative activities.

Finally, it’s important to seek support when you need it. Talking to a friend, family member or professional, having someone to talk to can help you process your feelings and get the support you need to maintain your emotional well-being.