Embrace some deep relaxation, with these tips for a mindful weekend

We can all accept that the normal week has seven days in it. But every now and then, it can feel more like 70.

We take on a lot during the week. Work and family commitments are at the forefront of our minds, our to-do lists are never-ending, and the pressure that comes with daily life bubbles up to the surface. With all that going on, it’s no wonder that so many of us are feeling exhausted and overwhelmed

So, this weekend, make a commitment to nurturing your wellbeing, with these steps to help you fully switch off and embrace deep relaxation :

  • This weekend set a time limit on how much time you spend cleaning and then relax! If you find that your weekend tends to get taken up by chores and odd jobs, try to adopt an attitude of ‘good enough’. For example, you have a daunting pile of laundry in front of you – could you break it down and fold on Saturday and put it away on Sunday? Or if your house needs a tidy up, could you break it down by room and just address the ones essential for relaxation? Also ask yourself whether the division of labour in your household is equal. Could, or should, someone else step up and help you out?
  • To lie-in or not to lie-in. A weekend lie-in is an absolute MUST if you can, and we certainly don’t want to take away that simple pleasure. But studies have highlighted a connection between irregular sleep patterns and low mood, and generally recommend trying not to under or oversleep by more than 90 minutes.
  • Gentle movement. The link between exercise and wellbeing is something that so many of us can attest to personally. But that doesn’t mean that you need to sign up for a Sunday morning spin class, or go for a 10K run, if that’s not your thing. Gentle movement, like a rambling walk or yoga, is a fantastic way to take care of both your mind and body. Also, if you spend a lot of time sitting down, crouching over a computer screen, this is an opportunity to stretch out your body and give it the movement that it needs.
  • Reconnect with your values. When we are moving at 100 miles per hour during the week, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of it all without stopping to consider the things that really matter to us. Whether it's through meditation, writing it down, or just quietly reflecting – take a few moments to think about the values that you hold most dear. Are you living in accordance with them? Do you feel fulfilled? If not, are there any steps you can take to better meet those needs?
  • Do the thing that brings you the most joy. It could be a hobby that you get totally lost in or reconnect with loved ones after a week of rushing around. Or maybe there’s a self-care activity that also does the trick – cooking yourself your favourite meal, a luxurious bath, journaling, reading, or just having some quiet time to yourself – mine is painting – what is yours?

Whatever it is you enjoy and wherever you are this weekend, try to make sure that it is  filled  as much as you can with relaxing self-care moments this weekend.