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In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, host Jami Kaeb welcomes Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a board-certified internal medicine physician, bestselling author, and internationally recognized expert on rest, resilience, and wellbeing. Together, they explore the critical concept of sacred rest and why it is essential, rather than a luxury, for caregivers and foster parents supporting children from hard places. Dr. Saundra redefines rest as a restorative process of pouring back into places of emotional, mental, and physical depletion, explaining the spiritual truth that we ultimately rest at the level of our trust in God.
Dr. Saundra breaks down the key differences between sleep and rest, emphasizing that while sleep addresses basic physical needs, it cannot heal depleted relationships, process heavy emotions, or restore creative problem-solving abilities. She introduces her Seven Types of Rest framework—encompassing physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, social, sensory, and creative rest—and shares how caregivers can identify their specific deficits. The conversation also examines the World Health Organization's criteria for burnout and offers practical ways to begin recovering without needing to create extra time, such as habit stacking restorative practices onto daily routines.
The episode highlights the importance of distinguishing true self-care and personal boundaries from pampering, as well as setting up intentional rhythms like Sabbath or extended abiding time to prevent burnout. Dr. Saundra encourages weary listeners by reminding them that burnout is entirely reversible when approached with intentionality. By starting with small, daily restorative choices, caregivers can replenish their own soul and spirit, ensuring they remain sustainable in the vital work of loving and serving vulnerable children.
About the Guest
Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a board-certified internal medicine physician, bestselling author, and internationally recognized expert on rest, resilience, and wellbeing. She is the creator of the Seven Types of Rest framework and author of Sacred Rest, equipping audiences worldwide with practical tools to overcome burnout, increase productivity, and achieve sustainable success. Through her unique blend of medical research and biblical wisdom, Dr. Saundra empowers individuals to thrive both personally and professionally.
In This Episode
Understanding sacred rest as a restorative process and why we rest at the level of our trust in God.
The critical distinctions between sleep and the Seven Types of Rest framework.
Identifying the signs of burnout and using simple habits like habit stacking to restore energy without adding extra time to your day.
Differentiating genuine self-care and intentional rhythms from pampering to build long-term sustainability as a caregiver.
Resources + Links
Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative - https://theforgotteninitiative.org/
Follow TFI on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theforgotteninitiative/
