Maximize Your Day Off: Strategies for Relaxation & Disconnection

A day off work can be relaxing and revitalizing, but only if you can truly disconnect from work and other obligations. With ever-present cell phones and email, many people are never far from the demands of the workplace. Further, a day off may mean time at home, which can come with its own list of projects that turn your day off into an exhausting series of home improvement chores. Try to enjoy your day off by making it as different from the rest of your days as possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Disconnect from work. Don't check your work email on your day off. If your workplace has provided you with a cell phone, turn it off.

• 2

  Change your routine. Set your alarm so that you wake up at a different time. Plan an activity that you wouldn't do on a normal workday, such as a leisurely 2-hour lunch.

• 3

  Get outside and relax. If you work in an office, you probably spend most of your days indoors. On your day off, visit a park, go swimming or practice yoga on the beach.

• 4

  Focus on important household tasks and leave the rest for another day. If you have to cut your grass on your day off or risk your lawn becoming a jungle, break out the lawnmower. However, don't hustle to do all your spring cleaning in a single day.

• 5

  Indulge yourself. Eat a slice of chocolate cake for breakfast if you want. Go on a shopping spree or schedule a massage.

• 6

  Spend time with friends and family. You may not see a lot of the people you care about during your regular workweek. On your day off, see a movie with friends or sit down for family game night.

• 7

  Take time to yourself. The workweek can bombard you with demanding coworkers or clients. On your day off, spend quiet time alone to decompress.