How to Craft the Perfect Sleepy Sunday

Author Image
Carla Oates The Beauty Chef Founder

Credit: Real Living
Stylist: Lisa Burden
Photography: Maree Homer

 

By Courtenay turner

In our busy, modern world – our bodies can often be operating in a constant state of ‘stress’. Between work, technology, social obligations, finances and family, if we don’t take the time to ‘actively rest’, our stress hormones may go into overdrive and impact everything from our weight to our mood, sleep and energy levels.

One way to rest – and rest well – is to craft a sleepy Sunday. Think of it as a day to embrace slowness, with calming rituals to ease the mind and relax the body. Here are a few suggestions to help you do just that…

Start the day with movement

Restorative forms of movement like yoga, Tai Chi and walking are all wonderful ways to transition the body into a state of relaxation. While staying curled up on the lounge all day may be tempting, our body’s require daily movement to help improve circulation, digestion and lymphatic flow. Find a yoga flow online, head to your nearest class or go for a walk in nature. And of course, leave your phone at home.

Get your hygge on

Hygge’ is a Danish word that refers to a feeling of coziness, comfort, contentment and wellbeing. There’s no equivalent in the English language, but can be described as a certain ‘vibe’ created through decor – think throw blankets, cushions and candles – food and activities like cooking, playing board games, reading or watching movies. While winter in Australia is more mild than what our Danish friends might endure, there are still plenty of opportunities to invite a little hygge into your life. Light some natural candles, pop on some comfy clothes and snuggle up with your favourite novel. If you’re feeling social, invite some friends around to watch a film or play your favourite board game. As far as food goes, opt for nourishing, gut-friendly sweets like our Gingerbread Men – they’re perfect with a big mug of tea!

Get prepped for the week ahead.

If your week ahead feels a little overwhelming, why not take a moment to jot down all your plans on paper? Writing down all of your commitments will free up some mental space in your head, helping you to relax even further. You might like to write a shopping list, plan your meals for the week, or write a list of things you’d like to achieve. By getting all your thoughts, plans and worries out of your mind and onto paper, they’re less likely to surface when your head hits the pillow.

Settle into sleep.

One to two hours before bed, indulge in a nourishing nightcap like our WARM SLEEPY CHAI. This spiced elixir will help to soothe any symptoms of mild anxiety that are lingering around and help to promote feelings of sleepiness. In the spirit of slowness, try using the stove instead of the microwave when making this nighttime delight. Sweet dreams…

As we're heading into winter in Australia, it's the perfect time to indulge in some more slow and soulful Sundays. How do you like to slow down on the weekend? We'd love to hear your tips and tricks!



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