5 ways to maximize your weekend

Get Physical

Many people do not make time during the week to exercise. While a hard workout session probably does not sound relaxing, the after-effects will make you feel good, and keep you healthy. Everyone needs to do it, and if you cannot work out 4 to 5 days during the workweek, you need to be active on weekends to make up for some of that time. A good gym session or other activity will help clear your mind, and make you feel better about kicking back for the rest of the weekend. You would feel like you have accomplished something, and you will be physically combating the stress caused by the work week. It’s the perfect opportunity to clear your mind and create fresh ideas.

Do Something Different

If you have a habit of following the same routine every weekend, consider mixing it up a little by trying a new activity. Aim for something that is not strenuous and would not take all day, in order to avoid over-taxing yourself. Crafts, games, sports, cooking, indulging a day at the spa etc., anything to bust stress and relax more.

Do not Work, But Be a Little Productive

If you have been routinely packing your weekends with chores and activities, take one weekend a month to do nothing constructive at all.  If you are like many dedicated employees, you often find yourself using your precious weekend to play catch-up with work or reading neglected emails. Commit to logging out of work when you leave the office. While you should not be bringing office work home, that does not mean you should not do work around the house. When you have checked off your tasks, stop working and dedicate the rest of the weekend to yourself.

Set Time Aside for Socializing

While you may enjoy spending your entire weekend alone, it’s good to plan time with friends and family. Socializing has a positive impact on your health and mood. It can be hard to see your friends when you have so much going on during the work week. A nice way to relax on the weekend is to change the scenery and hang out with people other than your usual coworkers.  Spending quality time with loved ones can leave you happier and give you a feeling of connectedness.

Take a Tech Break

While you have already committed to ignoring work-related calls and emails, for a truly relaxing weekend, try to cut the cord from all your electronics. Turn the TV off and pick up a book. Go to a bookstore and find an interesting magazine. If you do decide to get online to surf the web a little, set a timer. Browsing on the internet and social platforms is a great way to lose half of your day without realizing it.