Here is something I think every girl should know. Sleep doesn’t actually mean rest, and sometimes you need to rest — like really rest. In a world where there are so many things you have to do to be productive and successful, taking a step back to actually rest and reflect is the best thing you can do for your mental and overall health.

The tricky thing about this is that you can’t just lie on your bed and expect to be rested when you are up again. You have to be intentional and actually plan your rest. Yes, I know it sounds like work, but it isn’t. It is about being intentional about your well-being and taking the time to reflect and reset so that you are in full energy for the work you have to do and can be your most productive self. I am going to give you some tips to plan the best self-care reset weekend.

PLAN WITH INTENTION

Here’s the thing: if you really want to get a good rest, you probably need to plan beforehand to ensure you actually achieve it especially in this era of hustle culture. Put it in your calendar, think of all the things you can do to relax, and actually do them — this will be the best time to watch a new movie or binge-watch a series.

CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULE         

You can’t have a good rest weekend if you mix work with your rest. Block out any type of work and make this time solely about you and not about your job. Clear out any appointments, and make sure that you spend the day with yourself alone.

PAMPER YOURSELF

This is the best time for you to get in that hot tub and have the best bath of your life. Do a DIY mask, give yourself a manicure, and take care of yourself.

DO SOMETHING CREATIVE AND FUN

You have been doing all the boring stuff all week, so you have earned the right to do something fun that has nothing to do with making money. Read a book, paint, dance, or do anything that makes you feel alive. I have a list of hobbies you can try here.

MAKE YOUR SPACE COZY AND COMFORTABLE

If your space isn’t good, it can affect your rest. Declutter your space, light candles, and make everything a self-care experience. Dive deep into this in my article about making your self-care space.

REFLECT AND RESET

Take a few minutes to reflect on your week by journaling. Write how you feel, what you did, and what you can do better. This will help you go into the new week feeling fresh, productive, and ready.

You also have to note, a self-care weekend doesn’t have to be expensive or filled with the things you see on Instagram; it just has to make you feel good, relaxed, and refreshed. It has to be about you and you alone so that you can be prepared for the days ahead.