It’s important to look after yourself and give yourself time to switch off, particularly during this unprecedented time.

Here are five ways you can truly switch off this weekend and enjoy a well-deserved break:

Exercise

Walking, running, cycling, yoga, a home workout – anything that gets your heart pumping. Exercise is great for clearing your mind, relieving stress and you’ll feel great after it! Check out the new hub from The Edge for some workout inspiration. Please make sure to follow government guidelines when partaking in outdoor exercise.

Take up or revisit a hobby

Dust off that guitar sitting in the spare room, get your knitting needles out, or channel your inner Mary Berry. Taking up a new hobby or revisiting an old one can help improve your mood. It also means you’re focusing and giving all your attention to that one thing, so can really give your mind a break.

Reduce your screen time

Social media is great for staying connected and up-to-date with everything and everyone, but it can be quite overwhelming at times. Try having a phone free hour every day – put it on aeroplane mode or shut it away in another room.

Listen

Listen to music, whether it’s songs you want to get up and dance to, or songs that to help you relax. Listen to a podcast – there are loads out there to choose from. Listen to what’s around you, go outside (if you can) or open a window and focus on the sounds of nature – a bird singing, the trees rustling in the wind…zen.

Write down your thoughts

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, confused; it might help to write all your thoughts down on a piece of paper. The process of actually writing can help, as you’re focusing on that physical task. Once all your thoughts are down, it can help you make sense of them and help you go forward. Try doing this before bed if you’re struggling to sleep.

 

Remember, it’s okay to not be super productive during this time, it’s okay to have days where you don’t do any of the above!
Stay connected with friends and family and look after yourself.