There are 7 different types of rest. So if you're still tired, you're probably doing it wrong.

Thanks to our brand partner, POSCA HYDRATE

Recently, my friend asked me, "How do you rest and unwind?" I stared at her blankly before admitting, "I don't… unless you count scrolling on TikTok?"

So I started digging into what "rest" actually looks like, and turns out there are seven types. And no, doom scrolling isn't one of them.

If you're anything like me — all-or-nothing, perfectionist vibes — don't panic. You don't need to nail them all at once.

The trick is finding the ones you actually enjoy and starting small. Here's what each type of rest actually looks — and how to make it happen, even when life's busy.

1. Physical rest

There are two types of physical rest we all need: passive and active.

Passive rest includes two of my favourites — sleeping and napping. Active rest, on the other hand, is all about restorative movement: gentle walks, slower workouts, stretching or even a massage. A mix of both can do wonders — think less muscle tension (bye, tight shoulders) and a nice little energy boost.

But rest isn't just about sleep or exercising, nutrition and hydration play a huge role in supporting your body. Having a balanced mix of nourishing food is obvious, but what we often forget is to hydrate properly.

In an effort to ditch the 3pm coffee, I came across Posca Hydrate, which is equally delicious as it is beneficial — and with no afternoon crash.

It's packed with simple, smart ingredients for lasting hydration and energy, skipping the usual culprits like sugar and stimulants. I especially love the electrolytes and prebiotics, which not only keep you hydrated but also give your gut a little extra love.

2. Mental rest

With our lives feeling busier than ever — juggling work deadlines, the mental load of running a household, remembering Book Week costumes and everything in between — it's no wonder we feel exhausted.

For those of us who don't have the luxury of being able to afford a holiday in this economy, the good news is that there are more accessible ways of experiencing mental rest.

Taking a few minutes every couple of hours at work or losing yourself in a hobby works just as well — anything that gives your brain a break from constant problem-solving and decision-making.

My favourite activity? Doing craft or colouring with my daughter. It's a way to bond and practice mindfulness at the same time (though, full disclosure: ban the glitter if you actually want to feel relaxed).

3. Creative rest

This one's all about replenishing your creative juices. And no, it's not just for people in "creative" jobs — it's for anyone who wants fresh ideas, better problem-solving or even just a little more joy.

Some ways to spark this kind of rest? Take a walk outdoors and really soak it in, transform your workspace into a little haven or try a new creative hobby.

Image: Supplied.

4. Sensory rest

Let's be real — our world is overstimulating. We spend most of the day staring at a little screen, then a big screen, all while surrounded by background noise. And if you're a parent? Your kids are probably just as overstimulated.

Some simple ways to hit pause include putting your phone on do not disturb, closing your eyes for a minute, dimming the lights or focusing on one task at a time. Social media addicts, this one's for you — trust me, your brain will thank you.

5. Emotional rest

Emotional rest is all about actually feeling your feelings — and giving yourself permission to express them in a healthy way. It's also about setting boundaries and reaching out for support instead of trying to carry everything on your own.

A good sign you're getting enough emotional rest is feeling safe to be your real self, flaws and all. It looks like being able to answer, "Are you okay?" with an honest "no" — without the awkwardness or guilt.

6. Social rest

Emotional rest and social rest often overlap, since our support system is at the heart of both.

Social rest is about protecting your energy by spending time with people who make you feel supported and uplifted. It's a chance to take stock of your relationships and notice which ones energise you versus those that leave you drained.

I like to tune into how my body feels after interactions — do I feel positive and light or depleted and tense? Then, I make a conscious choice to step back from those who consistently leave me feeling the latter.

It's also a chance to say "no" to social events and to be less "reachable" by turning off your messaging apps.

7. Spiritual rest

Spiritual rest is about reconnecting with meaning, purpose and a sense of belonging beyond the day-to-day grind.

For some, that might look like religion or prayer, but it can also come from connecting with a community, spending time in nature or engaging in practices that feel personally meaningful.

This kind of rest helps us feel calm, grounded and gives perspective when life gets hectic.

Grab Posca Hydrate from your nearest stockist.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Ancient wisdom, remixed for the battles of modern life.
A 2,000-year-old recipe, reimagined as a sparkling functional drink, Posca is your hydrating, energising, gut-loving, zero sugar health elixir, with flavour that hits.
Bold flavour. Big benefits. No regrets. Posca Hydrate is wellness that actually tastes good.