Keys to Combat burnout and exhaustion

Let’s begin by reflecting on the following question: Are you getting enough of the seven types (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, sensory, social, and creative) of rest? Yes, there are seven types of rest, according to Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a Board Certified Internal Medicine Physician and mother of two children. She found herself feeling burned out, exhausted and overwhelmed despite sleeping well at night, a common theme she discovered among many of her patients. Her exploration led her to discover the following seven types of rest:

1.????? Physical Rest – achieved by gentle activities (Yoga, stretching and massage therapy) that increase blood flow, lower stress and boost healing.

2.????? Mental Rest – Scheduling breaks every couple of hours and do nothing that requires your brain to work.

3.????? Spiritual Rest – Explore and identify meaning of your life, your purpose and journal your thoughts and feelings with a section designated to gratitude (what you are grateful for).

4.????? Emotional Rest – Create a safe space for yourself to practice honesty and vulnerability about how you feel. Sharing with a safe person/friend/partner allows you to let your guard down and feel emotionally rested.

5.????? Sensory Rest – Sensory environments can impact and deplete energy. Create content free pockets of time in your schedule. Sit back with your eyes closed in total silence for a few minutes throughout your day. ?

6.????? Social Rest – Regardless of whether you are an introvert or extrovert, manage your social calendar mindfully. Balance spending time in environments that deplete your energy (where you are constantly needed) with those that recharge your batteries.

7.????? Creative Rest – Slow down and smell the roses. According to Dr. Dalton Smith, when we appreciate the beauty around us, we experience creative rest. Take a walk outside and take notice of the beauty around you.

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May you always make the time for the rest you need.