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The Art of Rest

How to Find Respite in the Modern Age

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The Art of Rest

By: Claudia Hammond
Narrated by: Claudia Hammond
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Summary

Today busyness has become a badge of honour. We want to say we're busy, yet at the same time we feel exhausted. Instead we should start taking rest seriously as a method of self-care and this book can help us to work out how.

The Art of Rest draws on ground-breaking research Claudia Hammond collaborated on – ‘The Rest Test’ – the largest global survey into rest ever undertaken, which was completed by 18,000 people across 135 different countries. Much of value has been written about sleep, but rest is different; it is how we unwind, calm our minds and recharge our bodies. And, as the survey revealed, how much rest you get is directly linked to your sense of well-being.

Counting down through the top ten activities which people find most restful, Hammond explains why rest matters, examines the science behind the results to establish what really works and offers a roadmap for a new, more restful and balanced life.

 Mental Health Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Psychology & Interactions Health
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Critic reviews

"Fascinating, entertaining and lucidly written . . . If we accept that reading is the most restful activity . . . The Art of Rest ought to be equivalent to a scientific siesta. The only trouble is that this outstanding book is far too stimulating to be restful"
"Claudia Hammond’s superb book reminds us of a truth that’s too often forgotten: that rest isn’t just an indulgence, but an essential part of a life lived well" (DR RANGAN CHATTERJEE)
"At a time when our waking lives appear to be more frantic and distracted than ever before, switching off has never been more of a challenge. The Art of Rest equips us with fresh research and information on how to rest more, and rest better, to get the most out of life. Reading it is a rest itself" (MATT HAIG)
"A soothing balm for a frazzled generation" (ADAM RUTHERFORD)
"Not only is The Art of Rest an enjoyable read, touching on scientific evidence in a light, accessible manner, it delivers on its promise too . . . Reading, according to Rest Test participants, is one of the best ways to rest. So if you want to change your 24/7 lifestyle, opening The Art of Rest may well be a good start"
"Hammond valiantly unearths some great nuggets . . . quirky humour and sunny enthusiasm kept me reading"
"A clarion call . . . It reminds us that in these frazzled times, rest is not an indulgence but an essential"
"The prolific and brilliant Claudia Hammond has done it again, this time with the science of how to make the most of our lives in work, rest and play" (KEVIN FONG)
"A thoughtful and enlightening book, perfectly mixing anecdote and evidence" (ROBIN INCE)
"[Hammond] helps guide readers who have been too guilty or anxious to make time for themselves to make a start in finding the best ways to switch off"
All stars
Most relevant
I have enjoyed the book as it gave interesting facts and statistics about rest as well as suggestions on how to most effectively rest and what activities people find most restful.

Good tips on incorporating rest into one's life

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Opened my thinking to the fact that what constitutes rest is different for each person so we need to tailor our own approaches.

I had to slow the narration speed as she spoke at a continuous pace with not much pause for breath and intonation.

Thought provoking

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The author backed her opinions up with a number of studies and emphasised the need for balance.




science behind the opinions

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Great book, very insightful and read perfectly, loved the little humour pearls within.. highly recommend it!

Very restful to listen

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Great book looking at top 10 restful activities. Lots of good humour and ideas.

Well researched ideas

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