Julie Morris- December 5, 2023
If you are one of the millions of people who spends their Sundays anxiously worrying about the school or work week ahead, you are experiencing what’s commonly referred to as the "Sunday Scaries." The good news is that you can help keep those feelings of fear and dread away. This guide from Creative Counseling and Studio provides tips and tools to help you prepare mentally and physically for school or work, so you can reduce anxiety as you start the week.
Make Sundays All About Self-Care
Instead of turning to bad habits like alcohol, which can worsen anxiety, embrace healthy habits so you can enter the week physically and mentally rested.
Prepare a healthy meal. If you don't want to spend all day cooking, try these fast and easy 30-minute recipes.
Get some exercise. Yoga improves strength, coordination, and flexibility.
Indulge in a 15-minute self-care activity like taking a bath or going for a walk.
Try to eat healthier and drink more water throughout the week.
Get Organized for the Future
Advanced planning will help you feel ready for your work and school tasks, reducing stress.
Create a simple to-do list so you know what to tackle first when the week kicks off.
Use a planner to schedule your tasks. Here's a guide to the different types of planners you can use
Clean and declutter your home on Sunday so you have a cozy space to come home to during the week. Here are some ideas for creating a relaxing space.
Consider meal prepping for the week so you don't have to stress about cooking later.
Looking further ahead, why not open more doors in terms of career options by going back to school? There are a number of available options in terms of degrees – including cybersecurity, which is in high demand right now!
Don’t Forget to Make Time for Fun
Give yourself something to look forward to in the week ahead.
Look up events in your area that you can participate in.
Set up a coffee date with a friend. Socializing is shown to improve mental health and can help you nix stress.
If you're lacking social connections, make new ones through online platforms designed to bring people together.
If you're looking for midweek activities that aren't an after-work drink, check out this list of options.
The Sunday Scaries can leave the best of us dreading Mondays and even make it hard to fall asleep on Sunday nights. However, by devoting your Sundays to healthy habits – as well as taking some actions that will benefit you long term, like eating more healthily and going back to school – you can make them more manageable and alleviate anxiety. Try some of the hacks above to get started.
Creative Counseling and Studio is here for all your mental health needs. Reach out today to schedule an appointment.
Comments