Say Yes to Mental Rest

1. Choose Your Day Wisely

Try and pick a day when you are free of all usual commitments. You can even go for the weekend or a leave day at work, should you feel you can afford to prioritize your mental well-being.

2. Set Boundaries

Inform your family, friends and colleagues of the decision that you're taking a mental rest day. Clearly communicate your availability boundaries and put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" mode, if possible. This way, you get time to just be with yourself, without any disturbance.

3. Create a Relaxing Environment

Get your environment ready to relax. Declutter around you, adjust your light as well as comfort elements such as candles, oils, and blankets to create a peaceful ambiance, which can largely influence the loosening up of your tension.

4. Plan Mindful Activities

Think about activities that help you feel relaxed and recharged. Here are some ideas:

• Meditation or Deep Breathing: Spend a few quiet moments meditating or doing deep breathing to balance your mind.
• Nature Walk: A walk in nature can be very healing. Listen to what is seen and heard.
• Gentle Yoga or Stretching: Move and stretch, focusing on releasing tension and re-establishing the connection with your own body.
• Creative Expression: Try journaling, drawing, or crafting. Sometimes letting the ideas flow can be the best way to unwind.

5. Disconnect from Technology

For a day, for instance, consider unplugging from your much-used sources: social media sites, news, or work-related emails. Disconnect from technology and allow that mind to rest from yet another barrage of information and distractions.

6. Nourish Your Body

Prepare nutritious, nurturing food that you feel positive about. Eat whole foods, hydrating beverages, and treats that you enjoy. Cooking can even be a mindful activity in and of itself—slow down to savor the experience.

7. Engage in Light Reading or Listen to Music

Choose a book or music that inspires you. Be it a novel or self-help book, or soothing music, something enjoyable can enhance your mental rest.

8. Practice Gratitude

Take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Writing down a few things can shift your mindset and enhance feelings of positivity.

9. Allow for Downtime

Don't over plan your day. Give yourself enough free time to just sit around. That is to mean, if it's your mood, just stay in the couch, sleep a bit, or daydream away to your hearts content.

10. Reflect on Your Experience

After this mental day of rest, take some time to think about how you're feeling. You might want to journal about your experience, jot down any changes in your mindset or feelings of renewed energy.