Activate holiday mode: Tips for a stress-free weekend,

As we race through the hectic weeks, the prospect of a well-earned long weekend feels more like an impending brick wall than a tropical beach house. The pace of modern life can be relentless, and as the weekend approaches, the pressure can mount. Professor Hassed's first piece of advice is an invitation to put your foot on the internal brake pedal, slow down and take it easy.

“Instead of rushing headlong into the weekend, take a moment to assess your pace,” he suggests. “Identify the essential tasks and responsibilities and allow yourself the luxury of a gentle start to the holiday season. In the rush of meeting deadlines and navigating the hustle and bustle of weekend preparations, the concept of slowing down may seem counterintuitive. It's an opportunity to find moments of calm amidst the chaos and foster a sense of ease as you shift into holiday mode.

Conscious use of energy

The holiday is known to disrupt sleep patterns and bring with it myriad demands that can leave us feeling exhausted. Professor Hassed stresses the importance of paying attention to our energy levels, particularly in relation to sleep and caffeine consumption.

This is a call to prioritize self-care amidst the holiday chaos. With the schedule packed with festive gatherings and obligations, it's tempting to sacrifice sleep to accommodate the myriad of activities. However, maintaining a consistent and sufficient sleep schedule is paramount for overall well-being. Good sleep not only rejuvenates the body, but also improves cognitive function and emotional resilience.

Disconnect from technology

In an era dominated by digital connectivity, the siren song of work emails and notifications can disrupt even the most well-intentioned vacation plans. Professor Hassed advises making a conscious and deliberate effort to avoid technology during your vacation break.

“Just put the phone down, or better yet, throw it out the window!” he advises. “You may feel the urge to check it, but try to resist that urge. Give yourself a little space and after two or three days the addiction centers will calm down a bit.”

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The addiction centers in the brain, accustomed to the constant stimuli of emails and notifications, may initially rebel against this deliberate disconnection, but they're simply riding the waves of panic and disorientation. By resisting the temptation to check email, you're making room for mental rest. It's a conscious decision to step away from the demands of work and fully immerse yourself in the vacation experience.

Writing an effective out-of-office message can also play an important role in setting boundaries. Turning off notifications and creating a clear communication plan with colleagues can help create a buffer between work duties and precious moments of relaxation and celebration.

Create space in your diary

In a world full of obligations and responsibilities, the idea of ​​leaving space in your schedule may seem counterintuitive. But Professor Hassed stresses the importance of resisting the temptation to fill every moment with activities. Instead, he encourages people to create moments of calm and spontaneity.

“By consciously leaving some space in your schedule, you create room for unexpected moments and relaxation,” he says. “This conscious breathing space allows for a more relaxed and stress-free vacation experience.”

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The key is to find balance. By resisting the urge to take on too much and allowing for unstructured time, you open the door to unexpected pleasures and can truly enjoy the holiday.

Embracing mindfulness and presence

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Perhaps the most important strategy for a stress-free vacation is mindfulness. Professor Hassed points out that being fully present means enjoying the simple pleasures, and that immersing ourselves in the present experience helps us enjoy the moment.

It's an invitation to be childlike in our wonder and to fully embrace the bounty of the holidays. Mindfulness in this context goes beyond formal practices like meditation. It's about consciously bringing your attention to the present moment, whether you're sharing a meal with loved ones, taking a leisurely walk, or enjoying the beauty of nature. By being present, you ease the mental burden of thinking about the many tasks that may lie ahead.

Mindfulness serves as an antidote to this mental journey through time. Whether you're savoring the taste of festive dishes, witnessing the laughter of friends and family, or taking a moment to enjoy the sunshine, mindfulness allows you to anchor yourself in the present.

We hope these tips help you have a truly enriching and relaxing time. It's not just about getting through the weekends, but embracing them with a sense of mindfulness, balance and joy. So start your holiday with intention, savor the moments and create lasting memories that will carry you into the year ahead with a refreshed mind and a sense of accomplishment.