Weekends in New York have a rhythm of their own. The city doesn’t slow down, but I try to. My weekend reset isn’t about productivity or checklists — it’s about grounding myself after a full week of noise, emails, and subway rides. Over time, I’ve built a routine that helps me recharge mentally and physically, so I can actually enjoy the city again before Monday comes back around.
Starting Slow
Saturday mornings are sacred. I don’t set an alarm, but my internal clock usually wakes me around 8. Instead of reaching for my phone, I open the blinds and just let the morning light fill the room. A glass of water, a quiet stretch, and a few minutes of doing absolutely nothing — that’s the warm-up for the day.
If it’s not too cold, I’ll walk to a nearby café for a slow breakfast. I like cafés that play low jazz and don’t rush you out — there’s something meditative about watching people pass by while I sip my coffee. Sometimes I’ll bring a notebook and jot down loose thoughts from the week: what went right, what didn’t, and what I want to do differently next week.
Cleaning Without Pressure
By late morning, I tackle my apartment — but in a way that doesn’t feel like punishment. I put on music (usually something instrumental) and clean in short bursts: laundry first, dishes next, then a bit of vacuuming.
Instead of doing a full “deep clean,” I focus on resetting my space. Making the bed properly, clearing off counters, and wiping down the desk instantly makes my small apartment feel larger and calmer. It’s amazing how much mental clarity you get from having an uncluttered space.
Running Errands, Mindfully
I used to rush through errands like they were chores to “get over with.” Now I treat them as part of the reset. Whether I’m restocking groceries, returning something from the week, or picking up fresh flowers, I try to be present.
My go-to move: walking to the grocery store with headphones off. It’s a small act of presence — noticing the city, the light, the people. You’d be surprised how grounding a simple walk can be after five days of constant screens.
Digital Detox (Sort Of)
I’m not strict about screen time, but I do try to disconnect for at least a few hours. I’ll put my phone on Do Not Disturb and leave it in another room. Then I’ll do something analog: read a physical book, cook a real meal, or even reorganize my drawers (yes, that counts as meditative).
There’s a strange peace in hearing nothing but the hum of the refrigerator and the occasional siren outside. It reminds me that not every moment needs to be filled.
Moving My Body
Sundays are my movement days. I’m not a gym rat, but I like to do something active — a long walk by the river, a light jog, or a quick yoga session in my living room. Movement clears mental fog.
Sometimes I’ll take the subway to a different neighborhood just to wander. Exploring new streets resets my brain better than any self-help book.
Cooking Something Real
Weekend cooking is therapy. I try to make at least one proper meal from scratch — something simple like roasted vegetables with rice or pasta with too much garlic. Cooking slows me down, and the act of eating something I made feels like a small victory.
I light a candle, put on music, and eat without my phone nearby. Just me, my food, and the quiet satisfaction that comes from doing something intentionally.
Planning Lightly for the Week
I’ve learned not to overload Sundays with planning. I just take 15 minutes in the evening to look at my calendar, outline key tasks, and write one intention for the week ahead — not goals, just direction.
Then I shut my laptop, make tea, and wind down. Sometimes I’ll watch a movie I’ve already seen before (comfort over novelty). My weekend reset isn’t about optimizing productivity — it’s about recalibrating energy.
My Verdict
This routine isn’t perfect. Some weekends I oversleep, skip cleaning, or end up scrolling more than I’d like. But even on those imperfect days, having a loose structure helps me reset faster.
What matters most is that by Sunday night, my mind feels lighter and my apartment feels like home again. That sense of calm is what I carry into Monday — and in a city like New York, that’s no small thing.
Written and lived by Chi Tran for 123Review.net.
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