The Power of Rest: 5 Simple Ways to Recharge Your Mind and Body

“I have no time for anything,” “There’s no rest in this world,” “I can’t even find time to relax.” Does this sound familiar? Most people know these phrases all too well and repeat them constantly throughout the day. We’re always busy, and we forget that rest is actually a critical part of our lives. Rest plays a vital role in refreshing the brain, influencing our daily performance, and directly affecting our emotional well-being.

Studies have shown that rest helps process emotions and information more efficiently than almost any other method. Today, we are bombarded with information from electronic devices, and at any given moment, our brains are forced to process massive amounts of data. Life is hectic and we’re running nonstop, juggling work, kids, responsibilities, and along the way, we become very exhausted.

The exhaustion can be physical from overwork, or from racing thoughts about unfinished tasks, criticism we’ve received, or anything else weighing on our minds. There’s no doubt that we need rest.

True rest should recharge us, leave us feeling refreshed, creative, inspired, and simply feeling like the best version of ourselves. Following are 5 simple and powerful ways to truly rest and recharge.

1. Go to Sleep- Properly

“The renewal of the mind (the soul) is through sleep,” says the Zohar (Bereshit 19), “New every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
When our minds are tired, sleep brings renewal. We therefore bless G-d: “Who gives strength to the weary.”

The first and most basic step is to go to sleep early without distractions or screens. Simply say the Shema and go to sleep. Sometimes, simply in bed with your eyes closed and slipping into a light doze can be incredibly refreshing and help clear out unnecessary thoughts.

(Photo: shutterstock)

2. Do Something You Love

Studies show that hobbies have a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating effect on the brain. If you love to draw, don’t wait until you have the perfect set of oil paints and a canvas. Grab some markers from your kid’s pencil case and start doodling. You’ll be surprised how calming such a simple activity can be.

The key here is simplicity- don’t wait to have a big garden to start gardening. Buy a few potted plants and take care of them. The same is true for music, fixing things around the house, or anything else that brings you peace.

3. Move a Little

Ironically, one of the best ways to relax is to move your body gently. We're not talking intense workouts, but some light stretches with deep breathing. This immediately affects your heart rate and blood flow, helping your body calm down almost instantly.

(Photo: shutterstock)

4. Meet Up with Uplifting People

Set aside time to meet with people who inspire you. Choose positive, uplifting friends who make you laugh and help you see the good in life. Ideally, those who strengthen your faith and help you see G-d’s hand in everything. You’ll leave these interactions feeling energized because joy renews the brain and brings clarity of mind.

“Through joy, the mind becomes settled, and one can think clearly. Joy is a state of inner freedom. When a person ties joy to their thoughts, they are no longer in mental exile and can direct their mind with purpose, understanding what really matters in life.”

5. Do Absolutely Nothing

This might be the best advice of all. Just look at children- they know how to rest by simply staring at the wall, just as easily as they run around or draw. Stop everything. Sit or lie down by a window. Listen to the birds. Don’t do anything. Let your thoughts go. Listen to calming music if it helps. Just be. No pressure to accomplish. No rushing.

Studies are clear that those who give themselves intentional rest breaks are more productive, creative, have better ideas and greater inspiration.