How to plan the perfect lazy Sunday

Get the most out of lazy Sundays

When it comes to planning the perfect lazy Sunday, it comes down to two factors: setting the time aside and finding activities that help you relax. Some people keep lazy Sunday low-key and spend the day in pajamas. Others plan a flexible itinerary of fun activities. Regardless of what tickles your fancy on lazy Sunday, make sure you do one thing. Enjoy the day to the fullest.

Shop this article: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, The Comfy Teddy Bear Quarter-Zip Wearable Blanket and Popco The Original Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper

Lazy Sunday benefits

Lazy Sunday presents an ideal opportunity to relax, both physically and mentally. The dedicated downtime also comes with a few benefits:

• Lowers blood pressure: Recent studies show that focusing on relaxation techniques can lower your blood pressure and risk for hypertension.
• Improves sleep quality: Decompressing during the day helps you approach your bedtime routine with less stress and anxiety. This makes falling asleep easier.
• Boosts mood: Spending the day focusing on positive thoughts and affirmations can boost your mood for the rest of the week.

Lazy Sunday activities

If you’re not sure what to do on lazy Sunday, don’t stress over it — literally. The goal of the laid-back day is to help your body and mind unwind. However that manifests on lazy Sunday, go for it. Here are some suggestions if you aren't sure where to start.

• Hot bath: Besides helping you relax, a long, peaceful hot bath with essential oils alleviates tension in sore muscles.
• Meditation: Meditating lets you get in touch with yourself mentally, physically or spiritually. It’s a perfect time to practice visualization, a technique that lets you imagine your future journey.
• Reading: Reading offers a welcome break from digital stimulation. Especially when you turn off notifications or alerts while you make your way through a good book. A cozy reading chair or pillow takes your relaxation to the next level.
• Streaming: Lazy Sunday is also the perfect time to catch up on shows you missed during the week or binge your favorite movies.
• Self-care: Indulge in self-care rituals you normally don’t have time for during the week, such as mud masks, manicures or foot baths.
• Video games: If you’re looking for a little stimulation on your day off, video games are a great way to dive into self-paced challenges, such as daily quests.

How to prepare for lazy Sunday

It might seem counterintuitive to plan a lazy day. But, when you put thought into how you expect the day to unfold, it’s easier for lazy Sunday to go off without a hitch.

If possible, square away all your chores on Saturday or earlier in the week. Besides crossing several items off your to-do list ahead of Sunday, you’ll have a clean, tidy home — and that in itself creates a relaxing atmosphere.

Although lazy Sunday is a laid-back affair, it remains an important event in your schedule. Block time for it the same way you would for other appointments. Not only does it help you stick to your much-needed downtime, but it prevents you from scheduling overlapping engagements.

Stock up on items you intend to use on lazy Sunday instead of going shopping for them that morning. Sunday is a notoriously busy time at most retailers. The amount of time you spend browsing and checking out can monopolize a large part of your day. Not to mention the hustle and bustle can add to your stress level.

Top 6 products for lazy Sunday

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

The Kindle Paperwhite e-reader is chock-full of design upgrades, from 20% faster page turns to adjustable warm light. Its glare-free display is easy on your eyes, which means less eye strain as you catch up on good reads on a lazy Sunday. Our tester loved the waterproof design, substantial storage, and lightweight build. It was easy to use with no computer connection required.

Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salt Lavender Bath Gift Set

This deluxe lavender aromatherapy set carries you through the day and night. Included are relaxation essentials from body wash to pillow spray. The set also includes moisturizing body oil infused with aloe vera to soothe sensitive skin.

The Comfy Teddy Bear Quarter-Zip Wearable Blanket

If you’re planning on spending the day on the sofa, slip into this teddy bear sherpa wearable blanket. Best of all, it has a jumbo kangaroo pocket to hold essentials, such as smartphones — or snacks.

Glamglow Supermud Charcoal Instant Treatment Mask

Treat your face to a clarifying facial mask such as this Glamglow formula that unclogs pores and removes toxins. It’s suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone.

Popco The Original Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper

When binging your favorite shows and movies on your lazy Sunday, make sure you have plenty of popcorn. This microwave popcorn machine pops up to a dozen kernels within minutes, and it collapses for easy storage.

“Wreck This Journal” Black Expanded Edition by Keri Smith

Tap into your creativity with this best-selling quirky journal. It features visual and written prompts and invites you to push boundaries and “make a mess” with engaging activities. Some activities include painting pages with coffee or creating produce sticker collages.

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Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.