If you’re used to waking up early and can’t break the habit, take a long nap (or two) in the middle of the day. [2] X Research source Keep in mind that you can’t completely make up for missed sleep later on—once it’s gone, it’s gone. Instead, try to establish healthy regular sleeping habits so that you’re not under-rested. [3] X Research source
Lounge around in your underwear, if you want. You’re free to do what you please! Skip your grooming routine for the day. Don’t worry about putting on makeup or deodorant or making yourself presentable. Pull your hair back in a messy bun, or simply let it go.
Laughing is good for you. Putting on a good comedy or inviting a friend over to share a few giggles can burn calories, reduce stress and even strengthen your immune system. [5] X Research source
Be your own DJ. Compile customized playlists to create the perfect mood for your lazy day. Browse streaming music services like Spotify, Google Play and Pandora Radio for an enormous catalog of genres, artists, albums and songs. [7] X Research source
A couch-potato session can be the perfect time to put aside dietary concerns and eat whatever you want. In some areas, you may be able to use food delivery apps like DoorDash, GrubHub, Seamless or Eat24 to place an order from your favorite restaurant with ease and have it brought straight to your door. [9] X Research source
Stay away from social media. It tends to be no more than an addictive overload of information, images and time-wasting activities. Use your off day to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. [11] X Research source Make sure the people you correspond with regularly know that you’re taking time off before you simply ignore their messages.
Chances are, you’ll feel mentally sharper and more accomplished after a few hours of reading. [13] X Research source
Turn down the lights and arrange a few candles around the tub for a spa-like experience. Put on some soft music or bring a book into the bath with you to kill two birds with one stone.
Even if you don’t get out of bed all day, you can enjoy an atmosphere free of planning, conflict, ringing phones and work-related talk. If you have small children, see if you can get a babysitter or leave them at a friend or relative’s house for the day. You’re entitled to your alone time, too.
You won’t be able to enjoy your time off if you’re convinced that you’re doing something wrong.
Just as you take breaks at work, you should schedule unproductive days to interrupt long blocks of busy, hectic activity. Leisure is like an investment for success. The idea is to take care better care of yourself today so that you can take better care of your life tomorrow. [18] X Research source
If your duties allow, set aside one or two extra days a month to do nothing. Too many days off can be a bad thing, too. Use your time judiciously. Make sure you’ve fulfilled all important commitments before putting your responsibilities on hold. If you’re taking so much time off that you struggle to get things done later on (more than three days a week on a regular basis), you might need to reevaluate your priorities.
