Rest: More Than Just Relaxation

Julia practising Viparita Karani

As a new parent, you may find that moments of rest feel elusive amidst the joy and chaos of caring for a newborn or young children. It’s essential to navigate the two critical concepts in supporting your wellbeing: rest and relaxation.  

Types of Rest 

 1. Physical Rest: This is what most people think of when they hear "rest." It involves allowing your body to heal and recover. Sleep is essential, but so are shorter breaks during the day; gentle yoga or stretching can help restore your body.

 2. Mental Rest: Just like your body, your mind needs a break. Mental rest can be facilitated by quiet reflection, meditation, or simply stepping away from responsibilities for a few moments to gather your thoughts. 

 3. Sensory Rest: In our hyper-connected world, our senses are often bombarded. Limiting exposure to noise, bright screens, and busy environments can provide your nervous system with the calm it craves. 

 4. Creative Rest: This type of rest involves engaging with beauty and inspiration. Take time to appreciate art, music, or the natural world—this refreshes your creative spirit.

 5. Emotional Rest: Speaking your truth and cultivating your emotions can be a game-changer. Sometimes just talking to a friend can provide the emotional clarity you need. 

Rest vs. Relaxation 

It's crucial to understand that rest is different from relaxation. While relaxation often involves engaging in activities we enjoy—like spending time with friends or watching TV—rest is about recovery and replenishment. Simply put, rest is restorative, while relaxation might not always lead to physical or mental renewal. 

Ways New Parents Can Support Themselves for Rest 

Finding rest as a new parent can be challenging, but here are some actionable ways to carve out restful moments amidst the busyness: 

1. Yoga Nidra: This guided meditation practice promotes deep relaxation and restorative rest. Even 20 minutes can leave you feeling refreshed and recharged—perfect for busy new parents. I recommend Insight Timer app to access a range of meditations.

2. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate short mindfulness meditation sessions throughout your day. Even just a few minutes of focused breathing can help centre and ground you. Mindful walking and engaging with your senses can be another really effective mindfulness practice - see this post for more.

3. Minimise Blue Light Exposure: Aim to reduce screen time at least two hours before bed. The blue light from devices can disrupt your natural sleep cycle. Try swapping your phone for a book or some gentle stretches before bedtime. 

4. Take Short Breaks: Whether it’s a five-minute pause to stretch, breathe, or sip tea, short breaks can dramatically improve your overall sense of rejuvenation and focus throughout the day. 

5. Create a Sleep Ritual: Establishing a calming bedtime routine for yourself and your little one/s can signal to your body that it's time for deeper rest. Elements like soothing music, dim lighting (no overhead LED lighting), and a comfortable sleeping environment can help. 

6. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to lean on family and friends during the newborn stage. Allow others to assist with tasks, so you can steal moments of much-needed rest. 

Acknowledging the Challenge 

We recognise that during the newborn stage, and even as your child grows, the path to rest is rarely straightforward. Balancing parenting responsibilities with self-care can seem overwhelming, but remember that prioritising your rest is a powerful and necessary act of self-love. 

Embrace these moments, however small, to nurture your own wellbeing. By allowing yourself to rest, you honour not just your needs but also model self-care for your children. 

 Take a breath, and remember: rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.