Resource Review: Sacred Rest
Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith explains that rest is more than just sleep—it’s about renewing your energy in seven key areas:
Physical Rest: Includes sleep and activities like stretching or relaxation to restore your body.
Mental Rest: Quieting the mind to avoid feeling overwhelmed, like taking mental breaks during the day.
Emotional Rest: Letting go of emotional burdens by expressing feelings or setting boundaries.
Social Rest: Spending time with people who uplift you and stepping away from draining relationships.
Sensory Rest: Reducing sensory overload by unplugging from screens or creating calm spaces.
Creative Rest: Finding inspiration in nature, art, or play, especially for problem-solvers or creators.
Spiritual Rest: Connecting with a sense of purpose or something bigger than yourself.
For parents of highly sensitive children, this book is a reminder to prioritize your own rest in these areas so you can be fully present for your child. It encourages finding small, intentional ways to recharge each day, showing that rest is not selfish but essential. It can also provide ideas for your children to rest - and personally, I think starting with a few that work for your child is better than all 7 (kind of overwhelming).
A personal sidetone - I started with:
PHYSICAL - what are ways in which our body needs rest?
MENTAL/EMOTIONAL/SOCIAL - what are ways in which our brain (thinking/feeling/being) needs rest?
SENSORY/CREATIVE/SPIRITUAL - what are ways in which our nervous system and/or heart/soul needs rest?
These categories obviously aren’t perfectly combined (and not author-approved) but it worked really well for us! And having simple categories to start with just starts the conversation.
Overall, the book provides simple tips and examples to help parents, like scheduling quiet moments, embracing hobbies, or practicing gratitude. It’s (in theory) a guide to restoring your energy and modeling balance for your child. Caveat being - we’re all different, and our plates are all full. So be kind to yourself
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Is it worth a read?
I think so - but only if reading is one of the ways in which you find rest ;)
In this world of product-driven go-go-go, I think we ALL need to consider ways in which we NEED rest. But if this adds more to your stress level, then just take my tips and find your rest your own way.