Does anyone else feel like they’re constantly chasing rest? Life is undeniably busy, and as someone who champions rest as essential self-care, I make a point to prioritize it. But here’s the thing—even when I go to bed early, clock a full eight hours, and schedule downtime, I still wake up exhausted. Sound familiar?
Turns out, sleep and rest aren’t the same thing. (Mind. Blown.) This revelation came to me through the work of Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a physician and author who identifies seven distinct types of rest we need to truly recharge. And honestly? It makes so much sense.
In our hectic lives—juggling kids, work, chores, and social commitments—it’s easy to assume that sleep is the only way to recover. But Dr. Dalton-Smith’s research shows that true restoration goes beyond just physical rest.

The Seven Types of Rest

Physical
Mental
Social
Spiritual
Sensory
Emotional
Creative

So how can we, as busy women, integrate these into our daily lives? The key isn’t to overhaul everything at once—it’s about tuning in to what we need today and making small, impactful adjustments.

Practical Ways to Rest—Beyond Sleep

Physical Rest

Prioritize sleep (set a bedtime alarm if needed!).
Stretch before bed or soak in a warm bath.
Alternate workouts to give muscles a break.
Invest in quality bedding—your body will thank you.

Mental Rest

Meditate (try Insight Timer or my [beginner’s guide to meditation](insert link)).
Journal or do a "brain dump" to clear mental clutter.
Lose yourself in a calming hobby (painting, gardening, etc.).

Social Rest

Silence notifications to control when you engage.
Schedule alone time—no demands, just you.
Say no to draining social obligations.
Walk with a friend who leaves you energized.

Spiritual Rest

Practice daily gratitude.
Use affirmations or leave encouraging notes for yourself.\

Sensory Rest

Reduce screen brightness + take tech breaks.
Create a quiet, low-stimulus wind-down routine.
Try noise-canceling headphones or a sleep mask.

Emotional Rest

Let yourself cry if needed.
Curl up with a comfort movie or uplifting book.
Set boundaries with emotionally taxing people.

Creative Rest

Spend time in nature.
Dance like no one’s watching.
Simplify decisions (meal plans, planners = lifesavers!).

Rest isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about listening to your mind and body. What’s your favorite way to recharge?

Share your go-to rest strategies with me—let’s master this together!