Consider that REST is more than one thing. Sensory rest? YES! Including resting from hearing kids!
Rest is not the opposite of work but rather an essential component of producing great work. Our best ideas often emerge during moments of rest, like taking a shower, walking, or sleeping[1]. There are seven distinct types of rest that can be integrated into a remote workday:
Types of Rest
Physical Rest
Includes both passive (sleeping, napping) and active forms (yoga, stretching). Remote workers can take midday naps or switch between different workspaces throughout the day[1].
Mental Rest
Essential for those who struggle to quiet their minds. It involves taking regular breaks between work periods without mental stimulation. Activities like midday showers or cleaning blocks can provide mental relief[1].
Sensory Rest
Particularly important for knowledge workers who face constant digital stimulation. This involves stepping away from screens and finding quiet spaces. Solutions include screen-free work periods and walking meetings[1].
Creative Rest
Helps combat feeling uninspired by engaging with nature or arts. Remote workers can take advantage of flexible schedules to visit museums, watch movies, or create inspiration folders[1].
Emotional Rest
Necessary when you’re constantly people-pleasing or hiding your true feelings. Solutions include scheduling lunches with friends or regular therapy sessions[1].
Social Rest
Required when social interactions become draining. This can be achieved by converting unnecessary meetings to asynchronous communication and scheduling dedicated “me time”[1].
Spiritual Rest
Addresses feelings of purposelessness through connection to something greater. Remote workers can join interest groups or become involved in community activities[1].
Key Takeaway
Burnout occurs when forcing yourself to work against misaligned intentions and reality. By proactively incorporating these different types of rest into the workday, remote workers can optimize their productivity while working less[1].
Sources
[1] rest-isnt-the-opposite-of-work Rest Isn’t the Opposite of Work — Remote Work Prep