Rest: a qualitative exploration of the phenomenon

The founders of occupational therapy perceived rest as one of the performance areas of the profession. They believed that an optimal balance between work, play and rest was crucial in obtaining maximal function and health. However, few occupational therapy theorists or researchers have explored the phenomenon. The authors explored the phenomenon of rest as reported in the literature and through a qualitative study. The results of the literature review showed that rest is differentiated from sleep; rest is equated with interrupting physical and mental activity resulting in a relaxed state. Rest can be achieved by listening to music, hypnosis, reading, walking and sitting quietly. In this exploratory study, seven individuals working at Tel Aviv University were interviewed regarding their definitions of rest. The results indicated that rest was defined as an activity that was personal, quiet and effortless, experienced alone or with friends, and helped in doing daily activities. It is concluded that there is a need for occupational therapists to explore further the phenomenon of rest as it relates to occupational performance, ergonomics and health maintenance. Examining the concept of rest is a challenge that involves returning to the theoretical origins of the profession.