Motherhood is exhausting. We crash into bed at night, desperately hoping for a full night’s sleep, only to wake up still feeling drained. Sound familiar?
That’s because sleep and rest are not the same thing—and most moms are missing out on the other six types of rest that keep us from feeling completely depleted.
Before I learned this, I thought my exhaustion was just part of motherhood. But once I started focusing on more than just sleep, my energy levels, mood, and patience changed dramatically. So let’s talk about the 7 types of rest every mom needs—and how you can start incorporating them into your life today.
Physical Rest: Your Body Needs More Than Just Sleep
We all know sleep is important, but rest isn’t just about lying down. There are two types of physical rest: passive (sleep, naps) and active (stretching, massage, movement).
How to get it:
Prioritize quality sleep (hello, blackout curtains and no screens before bed!) Take short power naps when needed Incorporate gentle movement like yoga or stretching to release tension
Mental Rest: The Brain Break Moms Never Get
Ever feel like your brain is running a marathon even when you’re resting? Mental exhaustion happens when we’re constantly overthinking, decision-making, or juggling 100 things at once.
How to get it: Brain dump before bed—write down everything on your mind Schedule breaks from decision-making (yes, let someone else pick dinner!) Set clear work-home boundaries to avoid mental overload
Sensory Rest: Because Moms Are Always Overstimulated
Noise. Bright screens. Toddler tantrums. Social media. It’s constant stimulation, and our nervous system needs a break.
How to get it: Spend time in a quiet, dimly lit space (even 10 mins helps!) Turn off notifications, reduce screen time Go outside—fresh air resets your nervous system
Emotional Rest: Letting Go of Mom Guilt & Stress
Suppressing emotions is exhausting. Moms carry so much on their shoulders—worry, guilt, stress—and rarely give themselves permission to release it.
How to get it: Talk to someone you trust (friend, partner, therapist) Allow yourself to feel emotions instead of pushing them aside Set emotional boundaries—say no without guilt
Social Rest: Taking a Break From Energy-Draining People
Some interactions leave you recharged (supportive friends), while others drain you (energy vampires). Social rest means taking a break from people who exhaust you and spending time with those who uplift you.
How to get it: Limit interactions with draining people Spend time with those who fill your cup Learn to say no to social events that overwhelm you
Creative Rest: Finding Inspiration & Joy Again
Creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s about seeing beauty, feeling inspired, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. If you’re stuck in the daily grind, your creativity is probably drained.
How to get it: Spend time outside—nature sparks creativity Read, listen to music, or do a hobby for fun (not productivity!) Give yourself permission to play & explore new ideas
Spiritual Rest: Connecting to Something Bigger
Spiritual rest is about purpose, meaning, and inner peace. It doesn’t have to be religious—just something that makes you feel connected and fulfilled.
How to get it: Meditate, pray, or practice gratitude Volunteer or do small acts of kindness Reflect on what gives your life meaning
Final Thoughts: Rest Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Necessity
Moms, if you’re exhausted even after sleeping, it’s time to look beyond just sleep. We need all 7 types of rest to feel truly recharged.
Which type of rest do you need most right now? Drop it in the comments!