Lili Stebbings

Whether you love your job or not, taking time off at the weekend and disconnecting from work to fully recharge is imperative to maintaining good mental health.

Weekends offer a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, and give us an opportunity to do the things that make us happy.

However if you’re returning to work on Monday still feeling tired and overwhelmed, you may not be making the most out of those two days to relax and recharge, ready to go again.

Making the most of your weekends takes intention and planning, so if you’re looking to maximise on dopamine and head into the new week feeling refreshed, here are a few ideas to help you out:

• Plan Your Time

Not only does planning your weekend mean giving yourself something to look forward to, it also means you can get the most out of your time away from work. Create a weekend plan that includes a balance of activities. Plan both relaxation and personal development activities such as reading a book or practicing yoga.

• Unplug from Technology

Try to reduce your screen time during the weekend – especially if you spend your working days looking at a computer. Limiting yourself from your phone and computer means less chance of checking emails, allowing you to completely disconnect and be more present away from distractions.

• Prioritise Sleep

Catch up on rest you might have missed during the workweek. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, and create a comfortable sleeping environment such as putting on fresh bed sheets to allow yourself quality rest.

• Declutter and Organise

We’ve all heard the saying ‘tidy house, tidy mind’. Tackling those household tasks that have been lingering on your to-do list for the past few weeks can really take some weight off your shoulders. So why not put on an episode of your favourite podcast and declutter and organise your living space, creating an environment that promotes calm and zen.

• Treat Yourself

Treating yourself doesn’t have to mean extravagant purchases or spa days, but rather buying yourself something tasty in the supermarket or picking up a bunch of flowers can really do good things for our mood.

• Socialise

Recharge your social battery by connecting with friends and family. Plan get-togethers, dinners, or fun outings to strengthen your relationships and enjoy the warmth of human connection.

• Find happiness in the small things

Don’t underestimate the power of savouring the simple moments. A quiet cup of tea, a leisurely bath, or a walk in your neighborhood can be surprisingly restorative.

Your weekend is a valuable opportunity to reset and recharge. By planning your time and engaging in activities that promote wellbeing, you can ensure that your weekends are not just restful but also fulfilling.

Use these ideas to make the most of your weekends to strike a harmonious balance between work and leisure, leading to a healthier and more invigorated you.

Do you do anything at the weekend that gives you a complete recharge and leaves you ready to take on the new week? I love hearing your tips so make sure to leave them in the comments below.