rest cure

noun

1. a treatment for nervous disorders, consisting of a complete rest, usually combined with systematic diet, massage, etc., especially at a spa or sanitorium.

rest-cure

noun

1. a rest taken as part of a course of medical treatment, as for stress, anxiety, etc
2. an easy undemanding time or assignment: usually used with a negative

   it's no rest-cure, I can assure you

Word History and Origins

Origin of rest cure¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

As Howe prepares to take his squad to Dubai for a rest cure followed by warm weather work before their season resumes at home to West Ham United after the international break, he will know he is now approaching one of the most crucial phases of his time on Tyneside.

From BBC

We do still see some evidence of that "rest cure" in how we care for the elderly, because it's easier on the caregiving system for them to be quiet, and inactive.

From Salon

Explain to me what that difference is and what rest really means, opposed to the old-fashioned "rest cure."

From Salon

There were lots and lots of problems with this approach to the rest cure.

From Salon

When the rest cure was developed in the 19th century, they also developed at the same time this idea of the West cure, which only men were recommended, which was about going off and working on a ranch or something like that.

From Salon