Got a tough week ahead? The kind you’ve been dreading? Here are four strategies to help you destress and approach the week with a calm, clear mind, ready to take on whatever comes your way. These tips are useful because, let’s face it, every week can be pretty stressful!

These days, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Technology like smartphones and the internet, meant to make life easier, often just keeps us tethered to our jobs, friends, and daily tasks 24/7. Everything demands your attention instantly, no matter where you are. Additionally, there’s a cultural push to be constantly active, outdoorsy, and social, which can be quite overwhelming.

If you’ve got a week packed with important meetings, numerous appointments, and some serious cardio sessions, it’s crucial to start with the right mindset. Being relaxed and calm from the beginning makes it easier to handle whatever challenges come your way in the next seven days.

Here’s what you can do before the week starts:

1. **Plan Ahead**: One major cause of stress is trying to remember everything you need to do. When your brain is juggling too much information, it’s easy to get confused. Start by listing out all your tasks for the week, including dates and times. Some tasks are set in stone, while others can be moved around. If possible, rearrange tasks so you have an even spread of activities throughout the week.

2. **Manage Distractions**: While you have 101 things to do, there are 1001 potential distractions. These distractions can range from minor interruptions to major time-wasters. On your de-stress day, try to tackle as many of these distractions as possible. If you’re midway through a Netflix series, binge-watch a few episodes to curb that craving for the rest of the week. Alternatively, treat these distractions as scheduled events and include them in your weekly plan. This way, you balance work with leisure and feel less guilty about indulging.

3. **Take a Relaxing Bath**: This isn’t just about being clean—it’s about deep relaxation. Showers are quick and efficient, but they don’t offer much in terms of relaxation. Draw a bath and unwind. It’s also a great idea to end your stressful week with a bath. That “Ahhhh” feeling as you sink into the water is even better when you know you’ve successfully navigated your week.

4. **Laugh and Exercise**: Laughter is a great stress reliever. Meet up with friends and share your horror stories about the week. They’ll laugh, you’ll laugh, and you might even start to see the funny side of things. Additionally, consider going for a walk or doing some light cardio. Even small bursts of activity can make you feel more energized and help you sleep better when it’s time to crash ahead of your challenging week.

By following these tips, you’ll hopefully be able to relax and unwind, ready to tackle your tough week head-on!