There are many reasons to rest, from reducing burnout to improving productivity and creativity. However, it can be hard to prioritize rest in a busy life.
Studies have shown that our mental resources are continually depleted, and that regular rest can help replenish them. Here are some simple ways from an article review sample to make rest a priority in your life: Sleep well, Exercise regularly, Eat a healthy diet, Reduce stress and Unplug.
Sleep well
When you get a good night's sleep, your brain clears out the toxic waste it collects during the day, helping you to think clearly and improve your mood. Studies also show that getting enough rest can help prevent heart disease and diabetes, lower stress levels and even aid in weight loss.
But getting a great night's sleep can be hard. Many people struggle to fall asleep and find themselves constantly looking at the clock, worried they'll never get a full night of rest.
Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each night, and practice relaxation techniques before going to sleep. Eating healthily and reducing stress can also aid in better sleep.
Exercise regularly
Whether you’re preparing for an exam, trying to remember the names of your new friends, writing wow essay or navigating complicated math problems, exercise is one of the best ways to boost brain health. Experts recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week.
Exercise can help improve long-term memory and cognitive function by boosting blood flow to the brain. It also reduces age-related inflammation and slows the decline of brain cells.
You don’t have to sweat buckets or spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of exercise for your body and mind. Aim for three to four 30-minute workout sessions a week to get started.
Eat a healthy dietJust like other muscles, your brain is less functional when it’s fatigued. That’s why Mondays are often jampacked with high-importance tasks or meetings—your brain recharges during the weekend.
Studies have shown that sleep may improve decision-making. During the deep, slow-wave portion of your sleep cycle, your brain may clear away waste material by flushing it out.
Resting can be incorporated in many different ways, and the amount of rest you need varies depending on your individual needs. However, rest can promote mental health, boost creativity, increase productivity and well-being, reduce stress levels and strengthen relationships. So, why not make it a priority in your life?
Reduce stress
Over time, stress is damaging to physical and mental health. It can increase the risk of depression, lower immune system function and make it hard to concentrate. If you’re constantly feeling stressed, try to identify the root causes. Try grouping them into those with a practical solution, things that will improve over time and those that you simply can’t change. This will help you find the best way to reduce your stress levels. It’s also important to seek out professional help if you’re struggling to deal with it on your own. This can include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or Mindfulness-based approaches.
Learn a new skill
The key to learning a new skill is to find a safe space that allows you to concentrate and disconnect from distractions. You can do this by putting your phone on silent or taking a digital detox for a few hours. This is called sensory rest.
It also helps to get inspiration from other people. You can do this by connecting with creative people or visiting art exhibits and museums. This is called social rest.
It's important to remember that resting is a lifestyle habit and can take time to learn. You may need to experiment with different methods to find the right one for you.
Unplug
Unplugging can be difficult, but it’s important to set aside time away from screens. Try to do it at least once a day and focus on being present with yourself, friends, or family. You might even discover a new hobby or passion!