This week we were blessed with a long weekend.  It was a wonderful opportunity for our students, families and staff to rest in the midst of a very busy, happy term.  Wellbeing specialists tell us that there are seven types of rest we require to function to our full potential. 

Physical rest   

This type of rest focuses on the body’s need for recovery.  It includes sleep, napping, stretching and massage therapy.  

Mental rest   

This form of rest is achieved through mindfulness, relaxation practices and disconnecting from mental stimulation, and aims to provide a break from mental activities that require focus and concentration. 

Emotional rest 

This focuses on allowing ourselves to feel and express emotions without judgement.  It incorporates setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion and connecting with sources of emotional support. 

Sensory rest 

Sensory rest involves minimising sensory input to soothe and restore the senses by spending time in nature, creating a calm environment or taking a break from screens, for example. 

Creative rest 

This form of rest encourages us to tap into our creative side and explore new ideas that spark our imagination.  It can involve engaging in hobbies, creating art works, or exploring our surroundings. 

Social rest 

Social rest focuses on having solitude or quiet time.  This could involve spending time alone, disconnecting from social media and the news cycle, or creating space for personal reflection. 

Spiritual rest 

This most important form of rest involves connecting with God through prayer, worship, spending time with our faith communities, and reading the Bible. 

I hope our PPN families are able to experience all these forms of rest as the term continues, particularly finding time to rest in the love and grace of our Heavenly Father. 

"Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." 

Matthew 11:28