I don’t know about you, but the first thing I want to do after a stressful week is get a drink. Whether I’m pouring myself a big glass of wine, or getting a beer at sunset, I’m often inclined to turn to alcohol to reset my mind for the rest of the weekend.

But you and I both know this habit (among others!) is counterproductive and often unhealthy.

Although there is definitely a desire to unwind with a sip of something alcoholic, and you can do it within reason, there are countless other ways to relax, slow down, and reset your mind after a stressful week.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Try a night yoga class or stretching session.

Yoga is an incredibly restorative practice. Through Synergy, we offer two yoga classes: Monday and Wednesday nights at 6:30.

Although this is a great way to start your week, as well as push you through in the middle, you can always do yoga stretches or exercises at home to reset both your body and mind. Something as simple as adding ten minutes of stretching to your daily routine can help to destress you.

2. Journal

Whether or not you’re a creative person, the practice of journaling can help you tremendously. Writing serves as not only a tool for self-expression, but therapy, as you release thoughts and potentially negative emotions onto paper.

Take time at the end of each week (or day) to journal about your highs and lows, and to create goals for the upcoming weekend or following week.

3. Meal prep for the following week.

Eating healthy can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. One easy way to combat this, and to hit the ‘restart’ button after a potentially bad week of snacks and meals, is to meal prep.

Regardless of whether you meal prep Friday night, Sunday morning, or some time in-between, meal-prepping saves you time and mental energy. When you meal prep you have complete control over what you’re cooking, the quantities, and you’ll make better food choices which can eliminate fast food purchases and potential binges.

4. Make a weekend checklist.

Okay, hear me out on this one. Although it may feel like the last thing you want to do after a week of work is make another to-do list, this can be one that’s geared towards your mental sanity!

Whether it’s chores that need to be done or social commitments you don’t want to forget about, create a checklist for yourself. This will make you accountable, keep you on track, and also create the best weekend experience possible because you’ll be paying attention to what you actually want to do.

5. Schedule your ‘free’ and solo time.

In the busyness of your workweek, you most likely didn’t have enough time for yourself. Or if you did, it was rushed because you’re stressed about everything else you want and need to do.

To reset your mind after a stressful week, carve out time in your schedule that’s specific to you. This can be time you spend alone (ex: getting your nails done) or time with friends (ex: a lunch with friends).

Regardless of what it is, make sure to set aside intentional time to spend doing what you want. it will leave you with a rejuvenated spirit that’s ready for the upcoming week!