Rest allows your mind to recover after a period of high activity. However, this doesn’t mean that you should only focus on getting more sleep or limiting your physical exertion. There are 7 essential types of rest we need to feel revitalized: physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, and spiritual. Identifying and focusing on the areas where you feel deficient is a great first step to feeling fully restored. Of course, your needs may change as the year progresses, so practice awareness and listen to your body.

Studies show that the sight of clutter or disorganization can negatively impact our well-being and reduce our ability to focus. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, clutter could be the culprit. Tackle those messes by dedicating an afternoon to tidying up your living spaces. Not only will you create a sense of calm in your home, the act of cleaning can help alleviate stress and anxiety, making you feel happier and more confident. 

And don’t feel like you have to tackle everything in one sitting. Break up your to-dos into a few hours or into smaller tasks that are peppered throughout the month. Over time, you’ll see an overall improvement in your home and mental state.

We all deserve some r & r. But a week-long meditation retreat or totally giving up caregiving duties isn’t always an option. Instead, create micro-moments throughout your day to unplug and unwind. Whether it is a 10-minute walk, chatting with a friend on the phone, meditating, or journaling, commit to a small daily action to infuse a dose of “me-time” into your routine.  Pressing pause throughout the day, even for a little while, is key to boosting mental energy.

The holiday season is often filled with social activities. Once the festivities are over, recharge by limiting outings and gatherings. It’s okay to say no to commitments — or people — who drain your energy rather than uplift you. Invest your time and effort in the relationships that are most meaningful to you, whether it is Facetiming your best friend who lives across the world or planning quality time with your significant other.  

The outdoors offers a breath of fresh air (literally). It’s also shown to have major positive impacts on our physical and mental health. You don’t have to plan an ambitious adventure to reap the benefits. Looking at trees for as little as five minutes can significantly reduce physical signs of stress. 

For an extra boost of energy, incorporate an element of nature into other types of active rest, like lacing up for a walking meditation or turning a coffee break into a picnic in the park. Even taking your child to the playground after a frustrating day can instantly calm the senses and clear the mind.

You don’t have to wait until you’re struggling to get help. If you’re feeling run down, lonely, in the dumps, or just want someone to talk to, reach out to a professional for support. Therapists and life coaches are trained to help clients manage stress or navigate career and personal challenges. 

Or, lean on friends or family when life feels like it’s too much. Ask them to babysit, to help make dinner, or simply hang out with a glass of wine. Everyone needs a helping hand sometimes, and you’ll feel much better once you’ve sought support to lighten the load.