Have you heard of the Sunday Reset Routine – maybe on your favorite influencer’s page, your Mommy Facebook group, or from a friend? It’s a trend that has been gaining popularity lately and for good reason. It’s a great way to take time and recharge before the upcoming week and built-in a way to practice self-care on a regular basis.
Personally, I find that having a dedicated day for this purpose can help me feel more refreshed and feel prepared for whatever the week ahead has in store for me. Plus, it can help alleviate those pesky Monday jitters or “Sunday Scaries” that many of us experience.
Of course, the specifics of your Sunday reset routine will depend on your needs, preferences and even the ages of your kids. Here are some ideas that you might find helpful in creating your own routine to help you feel recharged and ready for the week ahead.
Sunday Reset Routine Ideas
1. Plan ahead for a productive week
Planning ahead can be a lifesaver, especially when it comes to preparing for the upcoming week. That’s why dedicating some time on Sunday evening (or morning for the early risers) to plan your meals and grocery shopping for the week, go over any upcoming tasks, kids activities, and luncheons with friends and appointments, can make a huge difference in how you approach the week ahead. Knowing what’s on the agenda lets you have peace of mind and avoid being caught off guard. Plus, you can mentally prepare for any potential stressors that may come your way.
If you’re feeling creative, consider journaling. Journaling can be a powerful tool to refocus your mind and reset for the week ahead. Take some time each Sunday to plan out your weekly schedule for the week ahead, and jot down any tasks, commitments, chores, and social events you want or need to attend. It will serve as a good reminder of what you need to do and an excellent opportunity to acknowledge any personal time needed outside of work and other obligations. Over time, this can help reduce anxiety and even strengthen resilience. So grab a journal and a cup of coffee, and spend some time planning out your week ahead!
2. Meal prep for busy weekdays
Let’s talk a little bit about meal prepping. We all know how crazy the week can get, and the last thing we want to do after a long day is cook a meal from scratch. But fear not, meal prepping can help ensure you start your week off on the right foot.
I know what you’re thinking, “Who has the time to meal plan and prep for a whole week?” But hear me out; it doesn’t have to be as time-consuming as you might think. One of my go-to strategies is to cook a meal that can last for a few nights, so I only have to worry about cooking a couple of times a week. Plus, it saves money on groceries and reduces food waste.
If you’re short on time, try making some snacks beforehand. You can chop up some veggies or make a pre-portioned trail mix to have on hand for a quick and healthy snack. Another option is to roast a tray of veggies for the rest of the week, so you can easily add them to salads, bowls, or as a side to your main course. This way, you won’t have to worry about prepping veggies every night or letting them go bad in the fridge.
Trust me, having healthy prepped meals and snacks on hand makes a world of difference in managing the chaos of the week while ensuring we’re still getting in those necessary nutrients.
3. Tidy up for a clutter-free mind
Maintaining an organized and clean space can be difficult with kids. However, it is essential to me mentally and physically to keep things well organized and in place. As someone who has a Type A personality, I find that having everything in its proper place creates a peaceful environment and helps my focus tremendously. It’s hard for me to relax or be productive when things are out of order.
On Sunday evenings, I like to designate 10 minutes to do a quick decluttering and organization routine before the new week ahead. This includes things like throwing a load of laundry into the washer, clearing counters of clutter, organizing bills, papers, and children’s artwork purging items that don’t serve me anymore, and quickly vacuuming high-traffic areas. The goal is always to start the coming week off right and in the best mindset possible. That way, I can attack any tasks or projects on my plate without getting distracted by the mess surrounding me.
4. Practice self-care
It is so easy to get caught up in caring for everyone else and forget your own needs. But in order to be your best self for your family, it’s essential to take care of yourself too. That’s where self-care comes in.
By focusing on activities that help you feel relaxed and recharged, you can prevent burnout and avoid feeling overwhelmed or anxious. For me, that means indulging in a soothing bath with a nourishing face mask and getting lost in a good book. Remember that everyone’s idea of self-care will be different, so find what works best for you.
Whether it’s taking a bubble bath, trying out a new skincare routine or simply sitting in silence for a few minutes, make sure to prioritize self-care in your routine. Because when you take care of yourself, you’ll have more energy and positivity to give back to those around you.
5. Family bonding through nature
Enjoying nature as a family is an excellent way to bond with your children, exercise, and simply breathe the fresh air. You could take a family hike, go for a bike ride or play some games in the backyard.
Incorporating nature into your Sunday reset is not only fun and exciting for everyone involved, but it’s a great way to promote healthy habits – like helping your children form a more positive relationship with both the outdoors and exercise.
After all, regular exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, such as reducing stress and improving mood. By making exercise a priority in your family’s life, you’re helping your kids stay healthy, teaching them the importance of self-care and leading by example.
6. Treat yourself
As you’re getting ready for the week ahead, don’t forget to treat yourself to something that brings you joy. It’s important to balance work and play, and taking time for yourself can help you feel recharged and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Simple acts of self-care, like sipping your favorite coffee or finally buying yourself that new pair of shoes, can make a big difference in your mood and overall well-being. It’s crucial to prioritize activities that make you feel good and add a sense of fulfillment to your life.
I like to treat myself to something special every now and then, like a fresh bouquet of flowers or a spa day. It’s a little reminder that I deserve to pamper myself and enjoy the pleasures of life, especially while juggling the responsibilities of being a busy mom.
7. Mindfulness for moms
Don’t forget to take care of your mental health, just like you take care of your physical health. Practicing mindfulness can help you feel more calm and more centered, even when things get chaotic with the kids. It’s all about focusing on the present moment and letting go of distractions and worries.
You can start with simple practices like deep breathing or meditation for just a few minutes a day and gradually work your way up to longer sessions. There are also plenty of apps (like Calm) and online resources available to guide you through the process, so you can find what works best for you. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential for being the best mom you can be!
8. The power of doing nothing
It’s no secret that life can get hectic and overwhelming at times. Between work, family, and other responsibilities, it’s easy to forget the importance of rest and relaxation. But taking the time to disconnect and simply do nothing can do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being.
Giving yourself permission to slow down and recharge doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It could be as simple as taking a nap, reading a book, or just sitting silently for a few moments. By disconnecting from the world and eliminating distractions, you can recharge and return to your daily tasks feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Remember, self-care isn’t just about being productive or accomplishing things on your to-do list. It’s about caring for yourself in every aspect of your life, including rest and relaxation. So, take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and give yourself the gift of doing nothing. Your mind and body will thank you for it.
9. Sleep well, feel well
Getting enough sleep is crucial for both your physical and mental health. It allows your body to rest and repair while helping your brain process and consolidate information from the day.
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and establish a consistent sleep schedule to help regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Avoid electronics and stimulating activities before bedtime, and create a relaxing sleep environment conducive to restful sleep. Prioritizing sleep may feel like a challenge with a busy schedule, especially on nights when you are trying to sleep-train babies, but it is truly so essential for feeling refreshed and ready to take on each new day.
Revitalize your week with this Sunday Reset Routine Checklist
By prioritizing self-care and implementing these Sunday reset routine ideas into your weekly routine, you can create a sense of balance and rejuvenation that will help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way!
And to make sure you stay on track, be sure to download my Sunday Reset Routine Checklist. Remember, taking care of yourself is not only important but necessary for living a happy and fulfilling life as a busy mom. So take some time for yourself, recharge, and get ready to take on the week ahead with a renewed sense of energy and purpose.
Read more on all things motherhood, lifestyle, and more on my blog. See you there!
