Weekends—those sacred two days where you can finally relax, reset, and breathe. But let’s be honest: how many weekends do we actually spend relaxing? Between running errands, catching up on chores, and filling our calendars with plans, it’s easy to find ourselves at Sunday night feeling like we need another weekend just to recover from the weekend.
What if I told you that you could craft a weekend routine that actually helps you recharge, slows down your pace, and leaves you feeling restored? Yep, it’s possible. Creating a slow weekend routine is all about intentionally carving out space for rest, relaxation, and joy—without the pressure to do it all.
Let’s dive into how you can create a weekend routine that brings balance, relaxation, and a little bit of fun.
The Slow Weekend Mindset
Before we get into the specifics of the routine, let’s talk about mindset. A slow weekend isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about being intentional with your time and letting go of the feeling that you need to be constantly busy. The key to a slow weekend is permission. Permission to not check every box on your to-do list, permission to indulge in downtime, and permission to be present in the moment.
Shift Your Expectations
First, let’s break the cycle of over-scheduling. It’s tempting to fill your weekend with plans—brunches, meetups, errands, Netflix binges—but in doing so, we often rob ourselves of the true restorative power of the weekend. Start by asking yourself: what do I actually need this weekend? What can I let go of? Maybe it’s skipping that crowded brunch to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee at home. Maybe it’s saying no to that extra errand run in favor of an afternoon nap. Whatever it is, give yourself permission to slow down.
The Perfect Slow Start: Ease Into Your Day
Let’s face it: we’ve all been there. You wake up on Saturday, check your phone, and suddenly you’re swept into the whirlwind of emails, notifications, and the urge to “get things done.” But a slow weekend begins with how you wake up. Here’s how to ease into the day without rushing it:
No Alarm, No Problem
If possible, ditch the alarm. Waking up naturally can make a huge difference in how you start your weekend. Of course, this is easier said than done if you’re a natural early bird, but even if you wake up at the same time, try not to rush out of bed. Take a few moments to stretch, breathe deeply, and let your mind slowly transition from the cozy world of sleep into the wakeful one.
Create a Morning Ritual
Instead of jumping straight into checking your phone, create a small morning ritual. Maybe it’s sipping on your favorite tea or coffee, journaling, or sitting quietly by the window as the sunlight pours in. Make this time for you. It’s not about productivity—it’s about presence. By slowing down your mornings, you set the tone for a more mindful, intentional weekend.
Keep It Simple: Don’t Overload Your To-Do List
One of the best things about a slow weekend is that you don’t have to tackle the mountain of to-dos that accumulate during the week. While some tasks are inevitable, it’s important to prioritize only the most important ones.
Pick a Few “Must-Do” Tasks
Instead of writing a mile-long list of tasks, narrow it down to the essentials. What needs to be done, and what can wait until next week? Maybe it’s laundry and grocery shopping. Or perhaps a quick cleaning session. Set a small, manageable goal—like “I’ll do these three things today”—and leave the rest for another time. This helps avoid the overwhelming feeling that you need to spend the weekend running errands.
The 20-Minute Rule
If you’re still feeling like you should do something productive, try the 20-minute rule. Set a timer for 20 minutes, and focus on getting one task done during that time. It’s surprising how much you can accomplish in just 20 minutes, and once you’re done, reward yourself with something fun.
Savor the Simple Pleasures: Slow Down Your Activities
The beauty of a slow weekend is in savoring the simple moments—the things we often rush through during the week. Here are some ideas to infuse your weekend with moments of slowness and joy.
Take a Walk with No Destination
Instead of just walking to get to your destination, take a leisurely walk with no agenda. Wander around your neighborhood, explore a nearby park, or just stroll around your house. The idea is to be present—notice the sounds, the smells, the textures around you. Walk without the goal of “getting somewhere,” and allow yourself to be fully immersed in the moment.
A Slow Meal
Cooking or eating doesn’t need to be rushed. Slow down during mealtimes—whether you’re preparing a homemade breakfast or savoring a simple sandwich, take your time. Use this time to connect with your senses: the sound of sizzling eggs, the smell of fresh bread, the taste of something comforting. Make mealtime an experience rather than just a function of getting full.
Dive Into a Book or Podcast
Pick up that book that’s been gathering dust on your shelf, or press play on a podcast you’ve been meaning to catch up on. Let yourself immerse in a good story or learn something new, but do it in a slow, relaxed manner. No pressure to finish quickly—just enjoy the process.
Afternoon Naps Are a Must
Sometimes, the best way to spend a slow weekend is by taking a nap. Don’t feel guilty about it—napping is a form of self-care that allows you to recharge. Whether it’s a full-on afternoon snooze or a short power nap, it’s a chance to pause and reset. Set an intention to nap with no distractions, no rush, and no guilt.
Slow Down Socializing
Weekends are often filled with social plans, but a slow weekend doesn’t have to mean a social blackout. The key is to keep socializing low-key, relaxed, and enjoyable.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Instead of jamming your weekend with endless social commitments, opt for a few meaningful interactions. Whether it’s a casual coffee date with a friend, a phone call with a loved one, or a cozy movie night with your partner, make these moments count. Keep them laid-back and enjoyable, with no pressure to fill every moment with conversation or activities.
Closing Thoughts: Let the Weekend Be Your Reset
Creating a slow weekend routine is all about balancing your need for rest, relaxation, and a little bit of fun, while also letting go of the pressure to do it all. By intentionally crafting your weekend and slowing down, you’ll recharge your energy, restore your mental clarity, and return to the workweek feeling refreshed.
Remember, your weekend is a chance to reset—not a race to do as much as possible. So, take your time, breathe deeply, and let the weekend unfold at its own pace. You deserve it.
