The 7 types of rest

Sleep is only one kind of rest. You can sleep eight hours and still feel flat, because the tank that's empty might be a different one.

This printable breaks rest into seven types: physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social and spiritual. Each one has a short description and a simple way to get more of it. Physical rest can be passive, like sleep and naps, or active, like yoga, stretching and massage. Mental rest can be as simple as a short break every two hours. Sensory rest might be closing your eyes for a minute in the middle of the day.

Use it as a worksheet. Read through the seven types and tick the ones you're short on this week. Then write down one small thing you'll do for each. Start with the one or two that stand out. Keep it on the fridge or your desk.

I use the same idea with athletes. Recovery isn't only what happens to your body after training. It's everything that helps you feel ready for the next session, the next work day and the next week.

Want the full explanation? Read The 7 types of rest. Want to put a number on your recovery? Try the Recovery Points calculator. Then plan your week with the weekly recovery planner.