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There’s something special about those first few hours of the weekend… before reality hits and you wake up on Saturday instantly thinking about laundry lists and never-ending errands. We all dream about those peaceful, slow-start weekends and it is actually achievable. With a few easy wellness strategies (and maybe a fidget ring nearby for when your brain needs a little extra anxiety relief), you can start your weekend feeling calm, knowing that you’ve got it under control.
Wake Up Slowly (Without a To-Do List Waiting for You)
Instead of jolting into Saturday with a mental checklist a mile long, give yourself permission to wake up slowly. Stretch under the covers, take a few deep breaths, and set an intention for your day before reaching for your phone. Let your weekend begin with presence, not pressure.
Take The Time To Really Unplug From Work
A good weekend should have you feeling like you have a clean mental slate when you get back in on Monday. However, that’s only possible if you’re creating true, hard boundaries between your work week and your time off. You might find it important to keep checking your emails or to think on work conundrums while at home, but to balance your career and mental health, you should be more decisive in setting those boundaries. Close your laptop with the understanding that you’re not looking at anything to do your job until Monday, and silence and work-related notifications. Consider a short ritual to mark the shift: a walk, a hot shower, or five minutes of breathwork.
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Slow Things Down On Friday
Sometimes, you might really be craving something big to get the weekend rolling, like going out to a show or meeting some sorely missed friends for a social plan. However, if you don’t have big plans, there’s no need to rush into them. Sit down and create a wind-down ritual that helps to set a restorative tone for the rest of the weekend. Invest in a little self-care with a candle, change into comfortable clothes, and find a way to spend your time slowly and thoughtfully, whether it’s cooking yourself a homemade meal, journaling your thoughts, or playing calming music.
Sink Into The Weekend Physically
Physical relaxation can be a big part of setting the hard boundary between your workweek and your weekend. This can include spending some time to meditate or going for a workout shortly after work, so you have the rest of the evening to enjoy the post-exercise high. A lot of people enjoy a little alcohol to take the edge off, but this can end up being more overstimulating than anything.
On the other hand, premium CBD and THC infused drinks can be a lot more relaxing, creating a mellow vibe that’s the perfect way to ease yourself out of work. Spend the first night of your weekend letting the pressure of work physically ease out of your body.
Have a Morning Ritual
This doesn’t have to be a 10-step routine (unless you want it to be). Maybe it’s lighting a candle, sipping a cup of tea, spinning your fidget ring while journaling, or simply sitting by the window for five minutes soaking in the morning light. Small rituals tell your nervous system: “Hey, it’s safe to slow down now.”
Connect With Nature
Even just 20 minutes spent in nature can reset your nervous system and help clear mental fog. Whether it’s a forest trail, a beach walk, or a quiet park bench, time outdoors offers stillness your mind doesn’t get during a busy week. You don’t have to make it a big adventure, however. Just take the time to enjoy a short walk or to relax and be fully present with the trees, sky, or water. Allowing yourself a little silence, without earphones on, can help you enjoy the benefits of nothingness. Let your mind wander without any judgment or obligations.
Your Mindful Start to Weekend
You don’t need a perfectly curated morning or a fancy routine to have a mindful start to your weekend. You just need a few small moments where you slow down, breathe, and remember that you’re allowed to enjoy this life you’re building. Whether it’s sitting in the sun for a few extra minutes, spinning your fidget ring during a quiet moment, or just letting yourself be without rushing to the next thing, you’re already doing enough. The magic is in the little things. So give yourself permission to move slower, savor more, and start your weekend with the softness you deserve.
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