The Art of Rest

In a survey of 18,000 people across 135 countries – there were 10 activities that repeatedly came up as the most restful. That survey was The Rest Test and it was the largest global survey ever carried out on the topic of rest.

In Claudia Hammond’s book ‘The Art of Rest’ each activity is given its own chapter starting with the tenth most popular restful activity and ending with the most popular activity. There is even a final chapter that outlines a prescription for rest.

Any guesses on what made it into the list? And what came first?

DRUM ROLL…….

Coming in first place as the most restful activity was: Reading!

This is no surprise to me (I’m biased as I absolutely LOVE reading books) but the other activities were things I don’t do much of.

Here is the full list from tenth place through to first:

10. Mindfulness

9. Watching TV

8. Daydreaming

7. A Nice Hot Bath

6. A Good Walk

5. Doing Nothing in Particular

4. Listening to Music

3. I Want to Be Alone

2. Spending Time in Nature

1.   Reading

What I loved about Claudia’s book is that it isn’t simply a book telling you that you need to rest more or that rest is important.

Each chapter explores that ranked activity and gives you both benefits and challenges to each. Then you can make an informed decision as to whether you want to try them out for yourself.

Another point to note here is that restful activity doesn’t mean you need to be switched off completely. For example, Claudia mentions how a nice hot bath is an activity you can be fully immersed in, feel active in, feel rested after and have time to switch off from work thoughts. All while focusing on relaxing thoughts instead.

In another example: the chapter called ‘I Want to Be Alone’ explores the idea of an optimum amount of solo time being 25 to 40 minutes and that once you go above this then loneliness can start to set in. It connects nicely to watching TV which is something people like to do to combat feeling lonely.

The chapters are connected together nicely but can also be read on their own too. This book was not only a really fascinating read but very easy to read through and get actionable tips.

 It’s a book I plan to re-read regularly to remind myself of the importance of restful rest.

 Note sleep is considered a switch off as opposed to rest and therefore doesn’t feature in the list of activities!

An activity that also didn’t make it’s way into the list was socialising with others. At first this seemed odd but then I realised a lot of the rest activities can be done with others such as going for a walk!

As a type A personality who love’s planning, and being occupied, the concept of rest often feels really difficult to me. I either end up feeling guilty or falling down a rabbit hole on Instagram! This book really made me take notice that the right form of rest leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated to continue the day. Rest doesn’t need to be at the end of the day and I love that concept.

What are your top restful activities that leave you feeling refreshed?