Almost every weekend my husband and I say the same thing to each other: “The weekend is too short.” Do you feel like that too? I wish our weekends were 4 days long and we only had to work for 3 days. That would be ideal and far more relaxing than just having 2 days off. Since we don’t have that luxury, I’ve dedicated my Sundays to the ultimate self-care day. This routine has not only helped me feel relaxed and refreshed but also helped set a tone for a positive week ahead. To help you, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of self-care Sunday ideas that will prepare you for the week while still allowing you to recharge and enjoy your day off.

What Does Self-care Sunday Mean?

Self-Care Sunday is a concept that encourages you to dedicate a specific day of the week, typically Sunday, to focus on self-care activities.

The idea behind Self-Care Sunday is to set aside dedicated time for self-care practices, allowing you to recharge, rejuvenate, and nurture yourself.

It serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care regularly rather than treating it as an afterthought, especially in today’s fast-paced and often stressful world.

What kind of activities should my Self-care Sunday include?

Self-care activities can vary based on personal preferences and individual needs.

For example, my routine includes getting a massage, doing a restorative yoga class, and preparing my meals for the week.

Your self-care Sunday may include physical activities like exercise, yoga, or going for a walk.

These activities promote physical health and release endorphins that boost your mood.

Emotional self-care might involve journaling, practicing gratitude, or engaging in hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment.

Mental self-care can include meditation, mindfulness exercises, or reading to relax and unwind the mind.

Self-Care Sunday is not limited to these activities alone.

It can also involve pampering oneself with a spa day at home, indulging in a favorite hobby, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply taking a break to rest and recharge.

Why should I dedicate a day to self-care?

You’re too busy to practice self-care.

I get it.

We’re all busy.

But going at 100mph and pouring from an empty cup will eventually lead to burnout.

Trust me, I’ve been there.

By dedicating a specific day to self-care, you can establish a routine and make it a regular part of your life.

Self-Care Sunday serves as a reminder to prioritize yourself, nourish your mind and body, and maintain overall well-being. It is a day to cultivate self-awareness, practice self-compassion, and create a healthy balance in life.

What can I do for self-care Sunday?

You can honestly do whatever you consider self-care since my routine may not work for you.

Remember, self-care Sunday is about prioritizing your well-being and engaging in activities that replenish and rejuvenate you.

Choose activities that resonate with you and bring you joy, and make self-care a regular part of your routine.

15 remarkable Self-care Sunday ideas to recharge and reset

Here are some ideas for what you can do on your self-care Sunday. You can do all of them or just pick a few that feel enjoyable for you.

1. Create a calming morning routine

My million-dollar morning routine has changed my life and I practice it every day, not just Sundays!

Rather than jumping out of bed and scrolling through your social media, start your morning with mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle stretching.

This helps set a positive tone for the day.

2. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast

My husband and I love preparing and eating a nourishing breakfast together.

We get some of our favorite fruits and vegetables from the local farmers’ market and then prepare and savor a healthy breakfast together.

You can even try some of these favorite recipes that you rarely have time for during the week since there’s no rush to be anywhere.

3. Disconnect from technology

I keep saying this but I’ll say it again.

Try to unplug from electronic devices for a few hours or the entire day. Engage in activities that don’t involve screens to give your mind a break.

You’ll feel better. I promise.

4. Engage in physical activity

If you only have 30 minutes for self-care Sunday then do this.

Go outside and be active!

Exercise is a fantastic way to care for your physical and mental health.

Take a yoga or fitness class, go for a run or hike, or simply spend some time stretching and moving your body.

Physical activity not only helps to improve your physical health, but it also releases endorphins that can boost your mood and reduce stress.

5. Take a relaxing bath

Fill your bathtub with warm water, add some essential oils or bath salts, and immerse yourself in a soothing bath to relax your body and mind.

Even better, add some spa music from your favorite music station and pretend you’re a client at a luxury spa.

6. Engage in a hobby

Dedicate time to a hobby or activity that brings you joy and helps you unwind.

Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing music, dedicating time to something you love can be incredibly rejuvenating.

I love writing so I spend 30 minutes journaling and also art journaling which taps into my creative side.

7. Read a book

Choose a book that interests you and spend time reading, either curled up on your couch or in a cozy spot outside.

As an avid reader, I do not buy books and use my local library instead. There are numerous books available for free through Hoopla and Libby.

8. Practice self-reflection

Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection.

It is also a great way to process and release emotions. Take some time on Sunday to reflect on the past week and write down any thoughts or feelings that have been lingering.

You can also write down your goals, or practice gratitude by listing things you are thankful for.

9. Connect with loved ones

Wondering what easy self-care Sunday ideas you can add to your list?

Reach out to friends or family members through a phone call, video chat, or even a handwritten letter.

Remember, connecting with others is an important part of self-care and can help to improve your emotional health.

10. Prepare a healthy meal

Cook a nutritious meal for yourself, try out new recipes, or prepare your favorite dishes. Mindful eating can be a form of self-care.

You can also meal prep as I do which will not only save you a lot of money but will guarantee that you eat nutritiously throughout the week.

11. Engage in creative expression

Engage in activities that encourage your creative side, such as drawing, coloring, or crafting.

You can also make a collage, a dream board, or even paint some rocks.

12. Practice self-care pampering

Give yourself a spa-like experience by indulging in self-care activities like a facial mask, a DIY manicure, or a relaxing massage.

These at-home spa treatments can help to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind.

13. Spend time in nature

Take a walk in a park, hike a trail, or simply sit outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature. Being in nature can have a calming and restorative effect on the mind and body.

Even a 15-minute walk in a park can be a great way to de-stress and clear your mind.

14. Practice gratitude

Take time to reflect on the things you appreciate in your life. Write down what you’re grateful for or share it with someone.

Regular gratitude practice has been shown to change your outlook on life and be more positive.

15. Practice mindfulness or meditation

One of the best self-care Sunday ideas is to engage in mindfulness exercises or guided meditation to bring awareness to the present moment and cultivate inner calm.

Mediation is a powerful tool for improving mental health.

Studies have shown that a regular meditation practice helps change the neural pathways in your brain thereby helping you feel calmer, more focused, and happier.

Spend some time each Sunday practicing guided meditation to bring awareness to the present moment and cultivate inner calm. Mindfulness helps you learn to focus on the present moment.

How Can I Make The Most Of Sundays?

One common complaint I hear among people I work with and counsel is that they don’t have enough time.

I understand that we’re all busy but I also think that our priorities are a bit unhealthy.

Take for example my client who works full-time and has a toddler. She is overweight and struggling with health issues. She has an excuse for me every time we talk about her setting aside 30 minutes a day to use her Pelaton.

I once asked her what she does at the end of the day. Her response was, “I spend about 2 hours on Instagram and Facebook.”

Hmm…

Ask yourself, how much time are you spending on activities that are draining your energy but not giving you any value in return?

Invest your time and energy in activities that improve your health and wellness instead of spending your Sunday endlessly scrolling through social media or binge-watching Netflix.

Start every Sunday with a self-care routine to prioritize your well-being and make self-care a regular part of your weekly routine.

Whether you choose to focus on physical health, emotional health, or mental health, there are plenty of activities that can promote wellness and help you to feel your best.

Take some time each Sunday to focus on yourself, and you’ll be well on your way to better overall well-being.

Wrap-up

Maybe someday we will all have 4-day weekends so we can luxuriate and have time to do nothing and or everything that brings us joy.

Although I wish I could make that a rule for all of us, the reality is that weekends are short and we usually have a lot to do to prepare for the week ahead.

Instead of powering through the weekend and not taking any time for yourself, start a self-care Sunday routine.

Think of Self-care Sunday as a time to prioritize your well-being and engage in activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental health.

Whether you choose to focus on spending more time outdoors, reading a good book or even taking a long nap, find a few activities that promote wellness and help you to feel your best.

Please take some time each Sunday to focus on yourself, and you’ll be well on your way to better overall well-being.

What are your favorite self-care Sunday ideas and routines? Do you feel like you’re too busy to engage in self-care and how can you carve out some time? What self-care ideas did you use and what did it feel like afterward? Please share your stories and comments below.