It seems like hustle culture is everywhere these days, with people pushing themselves to do more and more every day. But wait! Although it’s good to challenge yourself, resting is hugely beneficial, too. To help you out, here are five ways to build more rest into your daily routine.
Resting is important because it gives your body a chance to recover from strain, improves overall health, and gives you the energy to do even more. In addition to your nightly seven to eight hours of sleep, here are a few ways to rest more throughout the day:
- Do only one task at a time
- Take breaks
- Get outside
- Choose your social activities wisely
In the rest of this article, we’ll explain each of these methods more thoroughly so you can find more ways to rest mentally, physically, and socially. So, let’s get started!
4 Ways To Rest More Throughout Your Day
Avoid Multitasking
When you’re busy, multi-tasking might seem tempting. However, it’s a surefire way to get burned out more quickly, reduce your mind’s efficiency, and increase anxiety. Perhaps counterintuitively, multitasking actually makes you overall less productive.
So, close other computer windows and put away your phone while working. Take time to eat lunch away from your desk. And, when relaxing alone or with loved ones, set aside work and be fully present.
Take Breaks
Research has shown that the human brain can only stay truly focused for about 45 minutes. So, if you keep trying to work after that 45 minute mark, you’ll probably find yourself slowing down and being less effective. Instead, set your timer for 45 minutes at the start of your day and take a 5 minute break when it goes off to “reset” your mind. Repeat this throughout the day for both maximum productivity and maximum rest!
Get Outside
Have you ever noticed how much better you feel when you’re outside? From sights of green, to the sounds of wind and birds, to increased vitamin D from the sun, being in nature is mentally healing for everyone. Take some time each to go outside, whether it’s a 10 minute walk from your house to the bus stop or a 30 minute walk around your neighborhood each evening.
Choose Your Activities Wisely
Being mindful of where and with whom you spend your time can make a big difference in your energy levels. After all, life is short and your free time is precious, so why spend it in situations that drain you? Practice being unafraid to say “no” to plans when you’re feeling depleted, and try new things instead of remaining stuck in the same routines.
We hope this article gave you some ideas that will help you find more moments of rest throughout your day. Pick just one or two to try this week, and see how you feel!
