The Science of Deep Rest: A Gateway to Sustained Wellness

An older adult meditating.

Source: PngKing/Adobe Stock

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, stress is a common problem that affects both our mental and physical health. However, there is a solution to this problem—deep rest. According to recent research, as explained by Alexandra Crosswell, Ph.D., deep rest can be a transformative remedy to combat the negative effects of stress.

What Is Deep Rest Exactly?

It's not just a brief moment of relaxation; it is a profound psychophysiological state that rejuvenates both the mind and the body. However, due to the stress of daily life, many people experience persistent dominance of their sympathetic nervous system, which makes it difficult to experience the benefits of deep rest except during the deepest stages of sleep.

How Does Deep Rest Differ From Ordinary Relaxation?

While a catnap or a leisurely stroll may offer temporary and valid stress relief, the deep rest state transcends distraction-based activities. According to Crosswell and colleagues, accessing the deep rest state involves a complex two-step process. In the first part of the process, individuals feel physically and socially safe; that is, they experience an environment that is threat-free, accepting, and inclusive. This perception conserves metabolic energy and cognitive attention, leading to the second part of the process— psychological safety. In psychological safety, distressing thought patterns dissolve, promoting a state conducive to deep rest. Contemplative practices such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, prayer, guided visualizations, and sound therapy likely facilitate psychological well-being by promoting a sense of safety.

But Why is Deep Rest Essential?

The answer lies in its ability to counteract the toll of chronic stress. In a world where the sympathetic nervous system often reigns supreme, deep rest restores balance, tipping the scales towards parasympathetic dominance. This shift is not merely a fleeting escape; it is a strategic investment in our long-term well-being.

The benefits of deep rest extend far beyond the realm of relaxation. Its effects are profound and far-reaching, from enhancing emotional well-being to bolstering physical health markers such as blood pressure and hormone levels. By promoting cellular rejuvenation, deep rest acts as a shield against the ravages of time and stress, offering a path to optimal health and vitality.

But here's the kicker: deep rest doesn't demand hours of our time and may result in increased creativity and productivity.

Even brief contemplative practices, such as 10 to 20 minutes daily of Vedic meditation, can ignite restorative processes within our cells, making it accessible to all, regardless of their schedule.

What's Next on Your Journey to Embracing Deep Rest?

With the transformative practices of meditation, yoga, and guided visualizations, we gain insight into our body's response to stress, fostering self-awareness and well-being. Prioritizing deep rest empowers us to take control of our health, paving the path to vitality and resilience.

In a world consumed by stress, deep rest becomes our sanctuary, offering hope amidst chaos. Let us answer the call to rest deeply, for within its embrace, we discover our true potential.