I actually think the game would be better with both solution 1 and 2, though for solution 2 I'm not saying it has to be those prerequisites. Im just saying some sort of prerequisites so that characters are not using rests unless they are truly needing it.
So maybe it isn't half health but maybe 3/4 health. Maybe not both food and drink are required but just food or drink. Maybe not all spell slots but more than half. Just something so that characters are urging players to NOT rest unless it makes mote sense to rest...both short and long.
And then, if they'd use too many, the story triggers an event that explains why goblins arent attacking or druids kicking people out, etc. And maybe even providing additional story quests, etc.
