- Sleep is necessary, but it should not be treated as the sole form of rest.
- Experts contend that availing the different types of rest for self-care is mandatory for mental health.
International Self-Care Day is observed annually on July 24 to serve as a meaningful reminder that self-care should be practiced daily, 24/7. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing one’s well-being and mental health.
This year’s theme, “Resilience, Adaptability, and Thriving in Adversity,” called upon individuals worldwide to develop psychological resilience and mental health with healthy self-help coping strategies.
However, several experts have come together to contend that, to maintain mental health, self-care should be a normalized daily staple rather than a single-day “celebratory” affair. This approach will not only help practicing individuals manage daily stressors and cope with negative emotions, but also safeguard their overall physical and mental health in the long run.
Dr. Krishna Veer Singh, Co-founder & CEO of Lissun – A Mental Health & Emotional Wellness Platform, emphasizes that self-care extends beyond merely tending to our physical health.
It necessitates giving equal attention to our mental well-being, considering the challenges of the fast-paced modern world. Many individuals face issues like sleep disturbances, the pursuit of happiness, anger management, work-related stress, depression, and anxiety.
Speaking with Zee News, Dr. Gorav Gupta, Co-founder of Emoneeds, concurs with this perspective, underlining that mental health issues have been on the rise in India in recent years. This growing concern accentuates the need to prioritize mental well-being alongside physical health.
However, mental health often takes a backseat due to society’s inclination to focus more on visible physical ailments. This discrepancy fuels the misconception that mental health problems are insignificant or undeserving of attention.
Recognizing and addressing these aspects of self-care are fundamental to leading a fulfilling life. Prioritizing mental health and taking proactive steps to manage stress and address emotional issues form a strong foundation for overall well-being, as highlighted by Dr. Krishna Veer. Dr. Gorav points out that due to the stigma surrounding mental health, individuals may hesitate to seek professional help or delay regular checkups, allowing potential issues to escalate silently. Therefore it is vital to bridge this gap and promote a more holistic approach to health.
Following International Self-Care Day, in a pledge to embrace self-love, let us explore the different types of rest for self-care to enhance relaxation and discover the ones that resonate with our unique needs:
- Physical Rest: Physical rest can be both active and passive. Engaging in activities such as yoga or stretching promotes flexibility and circulation, constituting active rest. On the other hand, passive rest includes sleeping or napping, essential for rejuvenating the body.
- Mental Rest: Finding rest for the mind is crucial, especially when trying to sleep at night. Many individuals struggle to fall asleep because they cannot silence the mental chatter from the day.
Taking short breaks every two hours throughout the day can remind individuals to slow down and unwind. Keeping a notepad near the bed to jot down any nagging thoughts can also aid in mental relaxation. - Sensory Rest: The constant exposure to screens and multiple stimuli can overwhelm the senses. To counter this, taking a minute to close one’s eyes during the day and unplugging from electronics towards the end of the day can offer much-needed sensory rest.
- Creative Rest: Allowing the mind to wander and engaging in activities that spark creativity can provide a sense of relaxation. Whether it’s painting, writing, or simply daydreaming, creative rest fosters mental rejuvenation.
- Emotional Rest: Acknowledging and processing emotions is essential for emotional rest. Engaging in activities that bring joy and comfort can help individuals unwind emotionally.
Therefore, by recognizing the different types of rest for mental health and practicing self-care, individuals can lead more fulfilling lives and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. Embracing self-care practices daily, tailored to individual needs, can pave the way for improved overall well-being and a healthier society as a whole.