Author – Vedika Jogani
A recent graduate from Ithaca College with a Master’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science, specializing in Mental Performance, Vedika Jogani is OMP’s Product and Content Manager. During her studies, Vedika worked closely with Ithaca’s Men’s and Women’s Tennis Teams and Women’s Volleyball Team as their Mental Performance Consultant. Vedika is currently completing her Certified Mental Performance Consultant Certification.
As we wrap up another year and get into the holiday groove, it’s prime time to remember the importance of rest and recovery as part of your training plan.
It’s not just about giving your body a break – there’s a whole spectrum of rejuvenation that goes beyond the physical.
Explore these seven dimensions of rest, ensuring you step into the new year not just refreshed but fully charged for whatever lies ahead.
- Physical Rest: Embrace the art of rejuvenation, distinguishing between active and passive rest. Engage in activities like yoga and massage therapies for active rest, while cherishing the quality of your sleep and indulging in a rejuvenating nap for passive rest.
- Mental Rest: Allow your mind to slow down and find tranquility through activities like journaling, listening to music, meditation, and deep breathing. The simple act of freely jotting down your thoughts can be a powerful tool to alleviate stress and combat fatigue.
- Social Rest: Nurture yourself with the soothing balm of positive and supportive social connections. Reflect on the people in your life, ensuring you’re surrounded by those who allow you to be your authentic self.
- Sensory Rest: Unplug from the constant sensory overload of our social world. Dedicate time away from electronics, perhaps with a refreshing walk or hike, allowing your brain to find respite from the barrage of stimuli.
- Creative Rest: Grant your mind an intentional break from the ceaseless mental strain. Immerse yourself in nature, engaging your senses to absorb the wonders it offers, providing a much-needed reprieve.
- Emotional Rest: Acknowledge and express your feelings deliberately. Sit with your emotions, offering them the space they need without judgment. Take a mere two minutes daily to check in with yourself, recognizing and embracing the array of emotions coursing through you.
- Spiritual Rest: Seek a profound sense of belonging, love, and acceptance through positive affirmations, gratitude journaling, and meditation. These practices can serve as powerful conduits to energize your spirit and foster a deeper connection with those around you.
As the year comes to an end and you slide into holiday mode, remember this: rest is your secret sauce. It’s not just about lazing around – there’s a whole menu of ways to recharge, beyond just a nap.
Give your body some rest, whether it’s through yoga, a massage, or just a good old nap. Let your brain take a backseat with some journaling or meditation.
Surround yourself with people who let you be you. Take a breather from the screen buzz and treat your brain to a walk sans electronics.
Nature is the ultimate mind spa – go soak it in. Feel those feelings, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
