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Last updated on October 19th, 2023 at 01:20 pm
Overwhelmed? Overworked? It might be time to take a break.
Let’s talk about why a day to relax and reset may be just what you need. And, we’ll share 35 mental health day ideas to inspire you.
Are you feeling stressed or burnt out… maybe both? You’re definitely not alone!
Most of us are living in a world where we’re always connected and constantly working–that’s not healthy. And, it’s not sustainable.
For the sake of our well-being, both mental and physical, it’s essential to unplug every so often.
Benefits of Taking a Mental Health Day
We all need to take time out of our busy schedules now and then to recharge and listen to our bodies’ physical cues that tell us when we feel stressed, bored, or exhausted.
A mental health day, where you take a break from work, technology, and life in general is a great way to reset.
It allows you to focus on yourself and release that anxiety and tension you’ve probably been carrying around.
It can give you a fresh perspective, recharge your batteries, and allow those brilliant ideas that were tucked away in your overworked brain come to the forefront.
Mental health days can also supercharge your productivity, boost your creativity, and dial down your stress levels.
Yes, taking a mental health day can have loads of benefits! And, as we mentioned, one of them is the opportunity to take a break from technology.
Our phones, computers, and the constant stream of news and social media posts can take a toll. When you use a mental health day to go tech-free, it’s like a magic reset button for your body, mind, and spirit.
You’ll feel rejuvenated as that “tech burden” begins to lift. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reconnect with nature and the world around you. Think of it as a breath of fresh air for your spirit!
This kind of mental health break can make a positive impact on your physical health too.
That’s because the chronic stress many of us live with can lead to issues with sleep, digestive health, heart health, weight, inflammation, and pain. It also negatively affects chronic conditions, including diabetes and cancer.
That’s reason enough to make time for relaxation. Oftentimes, a mental health day is just what the doctor ordered.
If you’ve never taken a mental health day before, you will probably realize just how much you needed one!
Your burdens will feel a bit lighter, and you’ll notice your body is more relaxed. You’ll likely have more energy too.
But remember, these benefits happen only if you actually take a break–so no using that day “off” to do other kinds of work!
It’s pretty clear that mental health days are beneficial for anyone who’s feeling overwhelmed.
Nowadays, many companies even offer them as a form of paid time off. But even if you’re not working for an employer, you can and should take mental health days when you need to. You’ll likely return feeling more relaxed and more productive–a better version of yourself, which benefits everyone in your life.
Some ideas for things to do during a mental health day include going for a walk in nature, escaping reality with a good book, having a spa day, or anything that makes you feel at peace.
Just remember, the point of a mental health day is to take care of yourself and let go of stress, so do whatever works for you.
How to Take a Mental Health Day
First, it’s important to schedule your mental health day. Decide on a time that will work best for you and your family.
If you have children, try to find a babysitter or family member who can watch them so you can fully relax and focus on yourself.
Next, choose from a few different activities that will help you release tension and relax.
Choose from the list below, or come up with your own. But, don’t make a to-do list and get overwhelmed trying to check them all off before the end of the day!
Start with one of these ideas, and see how you feel. This is meant to be a relaxing day after all.
While it may be difficult and not something you’re used to, focus on yourself for the entire day. Only do things that will help you feel happier, calmer, and more at peace.
Mental Health Day Ideas
Are you ready to schedule a mental health day? Here are a some activities that will should help you release that tension and focus on relaxation.
Choose any of these, or just use them for inspiration. Do what works for you–listen to your mind and body.
- Listen to your favorite music.
- Have a spa day. You can do this at home, if you’d like.
- Practice yoga or tai chi.
- Go out for coffee or tea and a fancy dessert.
- Break out the adult coloring books.
- Sleep in.
- Do a jigsaw puzzle.
- Take a walk.
- Go to a concert.
- Write a list of things you’re thankful for.
- Binge your favorite sitcom.
- Have a picnic in the park.
- Write in a journal.
- Take a leisurely bubble bath.
- Get a manicure and/or a pedicure.
- Go on a hike.
- Read a book, or listen to an audio book.
- Meditate.
- Try your hand at painting or another art project.
- Go to the movies–make it a comedy or something else upbeat.
- Bake your favorite treats…and eat them!
- Head to the beach.
- Go for a bike ride.
- Spend time with your pet.
- Light a candle.
- Go for a swim.
- Browse the shelves at your favorite bookstore.
- Build something with LEGOs.
- Work in the garden.
- Get a massage.
- Pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers.
- Take an afternoon nap.
- Stargaze.
- Sit outside, and soak up the sun.
- Do nothing but relax!
Mental health days are vital for our well-being and even our physical health. So, the next time you feel the need to rest and reset, go ahead, you deserve it!
Do you have any other mental health day ideas that help you to unwind and de-stress? Leave us a comment.
Also read:
Self-Care Checklist Printable (Free)
Try One of These 11 Stress-Relieving Hobbies (& Why You Should)
30 Stress-Relief Coloring Books for Adults: The Perfect Way to Unwind
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