It has been a tough week. You have had little to no sleep, you feel like you are constantly on edge, and everything feels like it is too much. You are not alone. Many people experience these symptoms after experiencing trauma. However, there are ways to help manage these symptoms and have a fun and relaxing weekend.Before we discuss tips on having a fun and relaxing weekend after experiencing trauma, let’s look at getting things done so we can truly enjoy our precious weekend time.
First, take inventory of your weekend
What do your weekends look like? Do you pop out of bed early to get your grocery shopping done or to get the house clean? Do you sleep in and read the paper leisurely while sipping a cup of joe? I confess.I’m a hot mess with my weekends and want to turn this around. Join me?
Getting shit done day
Maybe a half day of errands, cleaning and a half day of rest?
There's something about the satisfaction of crossing an item off a to-do list that feels downright therapeutic. Not to mention, getting things done can make you feel more productive and organized. But for many of us, the task of actually completing our to-dos seems daunting. Especially when they seem to keep piling up.
So how do we get started? And more importantly, how do we keep momentum going? Here are a few tips:
1) Make a plan. It sounds simple, but having a plan helps give you a sense of direction and makes it easier to stay focused. break down your tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
2) Create routines and rituals. Establishing routines for things like grocery shopping, laundry or taking the dog for a walk can help make them less overwhelming and easier to slot into your schedule.
A day of rest
Time for spiritual connection, family time and then a few hours of planning for the week or month ahead?
There's something about a day of rest that just feels right. In a world where we're constantly bombarded with new information, new tasks, and new challenges, it can be refreshing to take a break every once in a while. For many people, that break comes on the Sabbath—a day set aside for rest and spirituality.
The Sabbath is mentioned throughout the Old Testament as a day of rest and reflection. It was originally mandated as part of the 10 commandments, and later became an important part of Jewish tradition. For Christians, the Sabbath is celebrated on Sunday, as a reminder of Jesus' resurrection.
Despite its religious roots, the Sabbath can be enjoyed by people of all faiths (or no faith at all). It's a time to relax and recharge, to reflect on the past week and plan for the week ahead.
Family time
Family day is a great opportunity to bond with your family. It's a time to connect and reconnect with your loved ones. You can spend time playing games, going for walks, or just chatting. Family day is also a good time to get caught up on what's been going on in each other's lives. Spending time with your family is a great way to strengthen your relationships and create lasting memories.
Planning for the week ahead
If you want to be successful, having a plan is the way to go. Award yourself for sticking to your plan. If you're working on a project, create a timeline and priorities for each day. This will help ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget. It's also important to schedule in time for yourself so that you can relax and rejuvenate. Make sure your weekly plan includes time for both work and personal activities.
Ultimate weekend win
There's nothing like a successful weekend to make you feel fulfilled. Whether it's spending time with family and friends, conquering a project or just taking some time for yourself, it's important to have weekends that are both productive and enjoyable.
You know you won the weekend when you feel your home is squared away, you connected with your love ones, you spent time on self care AND you planned the week ahead. Is it possible to get all of this done in two days? If you perfected the weekend grind, we would love to hear from you! Please share your routines in the comments below.
Tips & Take aways
Here are a few tips for making the most of your weekends:
1. Plan ahead. If you know what you want to accomplish over the weekend, it'll be easier to stay on track. Make a list of things you'd like to do and try to balance out fun activities with productive ones.
2. Set boundaries. It can be easy to get overwhelmed if you don't set some boundaries for yourself. Decide how many hours you want to spend on each task and stick to it.
3. Take advantage of the weather.Is it raining? Take advantage of crawling up with a good book or movie alone or with a love one. Is it sunny? Consider time at the park or for a walk to get frozen custard.
4. Spiritual inventory. What would feed your soul this weekend? Maybe it is time in church, community service, or reflective prayer time. Faith can help us through tough times.
5. Enjoy friends/family. If you aren’t able to enjoy dinner or an activity out, consider a phone call, a quick hug or play a game. Be creative and take a breath.
6.You time.Consider getting a massage, doing some yoga poses, or giving yourself an at home facial.
7.VIP Day. Spend time with me for a block of deep focus to problem solve a conflict, communication issue, or grief/recovery work.24 years of clinical experience equips me well to be of service to you.
I found that making the Sabath a rest day- or a family fun day- the perfect way to restore one's sanity after a week full of whirlwind demands and activities.
Thank you Roy for taking the time to read my blog post and to make a comment. I agree wholeheartedly with your comment and hope readers will consider slowing down at least one day a week. Thank you!