Sundays—the bittersweet end of the weekend. It’s the perfect day to relax and recharge before the hustle and bustle of the week begins.
However, it’s also a day that many of us dread because of something called the “Sunday scaries.”
You know, that creeping anxiety about the week ahead that starts to settle in as the sun sets on your weekend fun.
But fear not! I’m here to help you turn your Sundays into a delightful experience with 30 fun and rejuvenating self-care ideas.
Let’s get into it!
But First, Why Is Sunday Perfect For Self-Care?
Sundays are inherently special. They are often quieter and less hectic compared to other days.
Think about it: most people use Saturdays to run errands, attend events, or go out. But Sunday? It’s the calm after the storm.
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It’s the day when the world seems to slow down a bit, making it an ideal time for self-care.
Plus, setting aside time on Sunday to pamper yourself and unwind can help you tackle the upcoming week with renewed energy and a positive mindset.
The Science Behind Self-Care
Research has shown that self-care is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, engaging in regular self-care activities can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health.
Another study from the American Psychological Association highlights that taking time to relax and recharge can enhance productivity and creativity.
The Sunday Scaries
Before we jump into our list, let’s address the “Sunday Scaries” in a bit more depth! 😓
This term refers to the anxiety and dread that many people feel on Sunday evenings, thinking about the upcoming week.
It’s a real phenomenon, and you’re not alone if you experience it. According to a study by LinkedIn, 80% of professionals report having these Sunday night anxieties.
It also identifies that one of the ways to combat Sunday Scaries is ‘self-care’.
Although this term largely remains “broad and undefined” by mental health professionals, another survey by LinkedIn revealed that professionals have: sleeping, healthy eating, exercising, time with family and friends, learning, and self-improvement listed on their Sunday self-care routine checklist (just a few of the things I happen to have on this list 😁).
So, by incorporating some intentional self-care activities into your Sunday routine, you can beat the Sunday Scaries and start your week off right.
Here they are…
30 Fun Ideas For Self-Care Sundays
1. Have a Lazy Morning
Spend your Sunday morning lounging in bed with a good book or your favourite show. There’s no rush—just enjoy the stillness and comfort of your cosy bed.
2. Brunch It Up
Invite friends or family over for a homemade brunch. Whip up some delicious pancakes, eggs, and smoothies. Or, treat yourself to a fancy brunch at a local café. Good food and great company are always a good idea!
3. Go for a Nature Walk
Step outside and take a walk in nature. Whether it’s a nearby park or a hiking trail, the fresh air and natural beauty will do wonders for your spirit.
4. Practice Yoga or Meditation
Roll out your yoga mat and spend some time stretching or meditating. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided sessions if you need some direction.
5. Read a Good Book
Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read. Getting lost in a captivating story is a fantastic way to relax and escape reality for a bit.
6. DIY Spa Day
Create a spa-like experience at home. Run a bubble bath, light some candles, and apply a face mask. Don’t forget to play some soothing music!
7. Bake Something Sweet
Baking can be incredibly therapeutic. Try out a new recipe and enjoy the process of creating something delicious from scratch.
8. Journal Your Thoughts
Take some time to reflect on your week. Journaling can help you process your thoughts and feelings, making you feel more centred and grounded.
9. Plan the Week Ahead
Spend a few minutes organizing your schedule for the upcoming week. Having a plan can reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control.
10. Watch a Feel-Good Movie
Curl up on the couch with a blanket and watch a movie that makes you smile. Feel-good movies can lift your spirits and help you unwind.
11. Crafting Time
Get creative with some DIY crafts. Whether it’s knitting, painting, or scrapbooking, engaging in a creative activity can be incredibly fulfilling.
12. Gardening
If you have a garden, spend some time tending to your plants. If not, consider starting a small indoor garden. Plants have a way of brightening up any space and can be very calming to care for.
13. Digital Detox
Unplug from technology for a few hours. Disconnecting from screens can help reduce stress and allow you to be more present in the moment.
14. Pamper Your Skin
Indulge in a skincare routine. Exfoliate, moisturise and take the time to care for your skin. You’ll feel refreshed and glowing!
15. Listen to a Podcast
Find a podcast that interests you and listen while you relax. There are so many options out there, from true crime to self-improvement to comedy.
16. Take a Nap
If you’re feeling tired, don’t fight it. Allow yourself to take a nap and recharge. Even a short 20-minute nap can make a big difference.
17. Cook a Healthy New Recipe
Challenge yourself to cook a new dish. Cooking can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your time, and you get to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal at the end!
18. Practice Gratitude
Take a moment to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Practising gratitude can improve your mood and overall outlook on life.
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19. Declutter a Space
Choose a small area of your home to declutter. Whether it’s a drawer, closet, or your desk, organising a space can be very satisfying and stress-relieving.
20. Volunteer
Spend part of your Sunday giving back to the community. Volunteering can be a great way to connect with others and do something meaningful.
21. Indulge in a Hobby
Whether it’s playing an instrument, drawing, or writing, spend some time doing something you love.
22. Practice Mindfulness
Engage in mindful activities like observing nature, puzzles or tai chi. These activities can help you stay present and reduce stress.
23. Reconnect with Loved Ones
Call a friend or family member you haven’t spoken to in a while. Reconnecting with loved ones can boost your mood and strengthen relationships.
24. Exercise
Get your body moving with a workout. Whether it’s a run, a dance class, or some home exercise, physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels.
25. Explore Your City
Be a tourist in your own city. Visit a museum, go to a new coffee shop, or take a scenic drive. Exploring can be an exciting way to spend your day.
26. Set Intentions for the Week
Take a few moments to set positive intentions for the upcoming week. Think about what you want to achieve and how you want to feel.
27. Watch the Sunset
Find a peaceful spot to watch the sunset. This simple yet beautiful experience can be incredibly grounding and serene.
28. Create a Vision Board
Get creative and make a vision board with your goals and dreams. Visualizing your aspirations can be motivating and inspiring.
29. Listen to Music
Put on your favourite playlist and let the music uplift you. Dance around your living room or just relax and enjoy the tunes.
30. Reflect on Your Accomplishments
Take some time to think about what you’ve achieved in the past week or month. Recognising your accomplishments can boost your confidence and morale.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—30 fun ideas for self-care Sundays that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to tackle the week ahead.
Remember, self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, or use them as inspiration to create your own perfect self-sare Sunday routine.
The key is to find what truly resonates with you and makes you feel nurtured and revitalised.
Maybe you’ll discover that a combination of a bubble bath, followed by some art therapy and a nourishing meal, is your ideal Sunday. Or perhaps a nature walk, meditation, and catching up with a friend over tea is more your style.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fun ideas for self-care Sundays until you find your perfect blend. And remember, what works for you might change from week to week, depending on what you need most at that time.
