how to take a day off
By on October 30th, 2008
Sounds simple right? Not so, say most humans. It’s just that time of the century when the speedometer of life is so accelerated, who has the time, right?
Wrong. It’s more important now than ever to take a day off, at least once a week or more (if you can) to restore your mental, emotional and physical well-being.
How does one take a day off exactly? Here are some dos and don’ts.
Stay away from your computer and cel phone
Probably the most challenging thing to do right? What I am suggesting is to make a habit of NOT going near your computer or cel phone on your day off. Actually, turn it off so you won’t even be tempted. Five minutes of computer time (just to check your e-mail) interrupts the relaxation process and balance that you are trying to achieve. Everything will be there just as you left it, when you return the following day.
Don’t get in your car
On your day off, choose to walk or stay home for the day. It’s a nice break when our mind can stay off the road, away from traffic and any stress associated with it. Walking and biking are great forms of exercise, release stress and are a great excuse to breathe in some fresh air.
Hang out at home alone
This is one of my favorite things to do on my day off. It’s free and you can wear your pj’s (all day if you like). If you have kids, try and pre-arrange an activity for them to do away from the home. This day is all about you. Here are some ideas:
1) Light a fire and stare into it.
2) Read an engrossing novel.
3) Cuddle with your cat or dog.
4) Listen to soft music.
5) Read angel or tarot cards.
6) Take a bath.
7) Read your favorite magazine.
Indulge in chocolate.
9) Drink tea.
10) Wrap yourself in a blanket.
11) Meditate.
12) Stretch or do some yoga poses.
13) Write in your journal.
14) Be grateful.
15) Take a nap.
At first, your mind will challenge you and want you to do all the things on your to-do-list. Acknowledge the voice, accept that it is pressuring you, and just keep relaxing anyway. After a few times of taking ‘your day off’, your mind will start to calm down and the next thing you know you will be looking forward to your special day.
One last suggestion: No guilt allowed
Do not let any feelings of guilt or obligation get in the way of your day off. You work hard and deserve it. Wouldn’t you agree?
October 30th, 2008 at 4:45 am
I sincerely think that if everyone did this once a week, or even once a month, the world would be an entirely different place. Imagine what would happen if we all got down off the hamster wheel from time to time to return to ourselves, to think about how we wanted to live our lives, to be quiet…
October 30th, 2008 at 10:27 am
What a wonderful post. I’m taking off now!
October 30th, 2008 at 10:47 am
I LOVE PLANET PINK N GREEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I really do…
October 30th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
I’ve been taking Sundays off for a day of Silence since I was 24 years old living in London–this day free of email, telephone, conversation, the ‘to do’ list but instead full of aromatherapy baths, reading dharma-related materials and just BEING has saved my sanity and kept me from being grumpy !
Everything that really really really matters is so easily seen in the space of silence and rest.
Wonderful and important post, Cheryl, thank you so much–way to go!
November 2nd, 2008 at 10:30 am
[...] Cheryl, founder of Planet Pink n Green, told us How to take a day off. [...]