Restore yourself. Get some Creative Rest!

What is Creative Rest?

Chances are, we are flexing our creativity more than we think. We are tapping into creative thinking with every brainstorm solutions at work, planning for an upcoming party, etc., thus putting ourselves in need of creative rest. Surrounding ourselves with inspiration can help replenish drained resources—and take the pressure to create off your mind. Surround yourself with art that speaks to you and enjoy your well deserved creative rest!

According to physician Saundra Dalton-Smith, author of 'Sacred Rest', humans need physical, mental, social, creative, emotional, spiritual, and sensory rest. 

“Most people, when they think about rest, they have a very one-sided approach—they lounge around, don’t do anything, and think that’s what rest is,” Dalton-Smith tells Shine. “We try it, and then when we’re still rest-deprived we think it doesn’t work.”

“If you're waking up (after sleeping) and still exhausted, the issue probably isn’t sleep. It’s likely a rest deficit." - Saundra Dalton-Smith, M.D.

Recommended  Read : 'The 7 Types of Rest That Every Person Needs' published as part of TED’s “How to Be a Better Human” series, each of which contains a piece of helpful advice from people in the TED community. Below is an extract for quick reference :) 

"The fourth type of rest is creative rest. This type of rest is especially important for anyone who must solve problems or brainstorm new ideas. Creative rest reawakens the awe and wonder inside each of us. Do you recall the first time you saw the Grand Canyon, the ocean or a waterfall? Allowing yourself to take in the beauty of the outdoors — even if it’s at a local park or in your backyard — provides you with creative rest.

But creative rest isn’t simply about appreciating nature; it also includes enjoying the arts. Turn your workspace into a place of inspiration by displaying images of places you love and works of art that speak to you. You can’t spend 40 hours a week staring at blank or jumbled surroundings and expect to feel passionate about anything, much less come up with innovative ideas."