EXCERPT:

In the whirlwind of our daily lives, finding time to recharge can often feel like a luxury. Yet, amidst the hectic schedules and constant demands, carving out a “reset day” can be transformative. This day serves as a deliberate pause — a dedicated moment to recalibrate, rejuvenate, and reclaim balance. Whether you live in an apartment in Des Moines, IA, a rental house in Minneapolis, MN, or a home in Columbia, MO, embracing the concept of a reset day can transform your living environment into a haven of tranquility and efficiency. 

Check out this Redfin article I was featured in:
10 ways to make the most of a reset day at home

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—> See “Tackling your ‘Clutter Hot Spots’”: from Jaime Steiner at Just Love Space

FULL ARTICLE

Recharge and Recalibrate: Making the Most of a Reset Day at Home

Published: June 18, 2024 by Julia Weaver

In the whirlwind of our daily lives, finding time to recharge can often feel like a luxury. Yet, amidst the hectic schedules and constant demands, carving out a “reset day” can be transformative. This day serves as a deliberate pause — a dedicated moment to recalibrate, rejuvenate, and reclaim balance. Whether you’re navigating a demanding career, juggling family responsibilities, or balancing both, crafting the perfect reset day at home is not just about relaxation but a strategic approach to restoring energy and clarity. Here, we explore how to curate a day that replenishes your spirit, enhances productivity, and cultivates a deeper sense of well-being in the midst of a bustling life.

Whether you live in an apartment in Des Moines, IA, a rental house in Minneapolis, MN, or a home in Columbia, MO, embracing the concept of a reset day can transform your living environment into a haven of tranquility and efficiency. From decluttering your space to practicing mindfulness, this Redfin article uncovers the secrets to a successful reset day and how this simple yet powerful practice can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

1. Practice yoga

Whether it’s a structured session with a video or a self-guided flow, yoga helps center your mind, improve flexibility, and promote a sense of calm.  This mindful movement not only refreshes your body but also resets your mind, preparing you for the week ahead with renewed energy and clarity.

Try restorative yoga

“When individuals are looking to practice yoga at home to relax and rest, I love to recommend restorative yoga for deep rest and healing,” advises Harpinder Kaur Mann, a yoga asana, meditation, and mindfulness teacher at Harpinder Mann Yoga in Los Angeles, CA. “Students can create a peaceful space at home with enough room to spread out, using soft lighting and props like blankets, pillows, and bolsters for support in poses. They can try supported child’s pose, reclining butterfly with a bolster under their back and knees supported, legs-up-the-wall pose, and supported savasana with a bolster under their knees. Hold each pose for 3-20 minutes, focusing on deep, relaxing breaths.”

Create a designated space for a yoga reset at home

“For your reset day, I recommend creating a yoga and meditation space in your home that gives you a sense of clarity, ease, and joy,” suggests Libby Nicholaou, founder of Setu Yoga. “There are many special things one can include to achieve this, but ultimately it’s about your connection to them. For me, I always have a candle and palo santo, as I like to clear the energy in my space and calm my senses through fragrance. I incorporate objects from loved ones as a way to remember how I am held and supported — like blankets, jewelry, and gems. While I have recreated my space several times, I always like for it to be near natural light and away from technology, as a way to create a natural oasis.”

2. Embrace stillness

“Ten minutes of stillness can calm the mind and connect us to our intuition,” advises Tabitha Gale, an intuitive life coach. “Close your eyes and take three slow, deep breaths. See if you can relax any tension in your body. Sit quietly and check in with yourself; ask, ‘What do I need today?’ Follow your inner guidance to enjoy the rest of the day and reset yourself.”

3. Save time with meal prepping

Integrating meal prepping into your reset day can greatly improve the week ahead. Spend part of the day planning and preparing meals for the upcoming days.

Focus on versatile building blocks

“Preparing healthy meals doesn’t have to be complicated,” advises Kate Lyman, owner and coach at Kate Lyman Nutrition. “Especially for those juggling work and family, having healthy options ready can reduce decision fatigue at dinner time. Instead of strict meal plans, focus on versatile ‘building blocks’ like cooked proteins (shredded chicken, ground meat, lentils, tofu), carb sources (rice, pasta, potatoes), and prepped produce (fruits, veggies, salad kits). With these basics on hand, you can easily create fajita bowls, stir-fries, wraps, salads, or any dish you crave, quickly and without hassle.”

Renata Trebing, intuitive nutrition and energy coach at Nourish with Renata also touches on this topic. “All you do is pick two recipes that use the same protein source. The key here is to be able to use the same protein source but cook them in different ways or with different flavors so you don’t get burned out with the same meal all week long.

For instance, you can use half of a large value pack of chicken breast to make a chicken stir fry with veggies, and use the other half of the value pack of chicken breast to make a pan sauteed chicken breast with a maple dijon sauce. Both recipes can be made at the same time, in different pans on the stove top, which saves time, and you can add simple sides like steamed rice and/or veggies to round out the meals.” 

Prioritize simplicity

“My No.1 tip for meal prep is to keep it simple for long-term satisfaction,” advises Rachel Gregory, board-certified nutritionist and strength and conditioning specialist. “Prioritize simple, nutritious meals to feel consistently content. Avoid overcomplicating for sustainable satisfaction. Aim for over 30 grams of protein per meal from lean meats and dairy. Include healthy fats like avocado and olive oil, adjusting based on your goals and workouts. Add non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and leafy greens for fiber and nutrients. Balance fruit and starchy carbs with your activity level. Use sea salt and spices to keep meals interesting. These strategies streamline meal prep and promote nutritional balance and satisfaction.”

Prep versatile ingredients

“Everyone has different preferences for meal prep,” explains Miriam Jacobson, a functional medicine dietitian, breathwork facilitator, and the founder of Every Body Bliss. “I get easily bored with repeating meals, so I prepare versatile ingredients that can be mixed and matched, like a salad bar in the fridge.

For 4-5 days, I recommend 1-2 proteins (such as hard-boiled eggs, rotisserie chicken, tinned salmon), 1-2 roasted veggies (like carrots and sweet potatoes), and some raw veggies (mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers). Combine these with nuts, seeds, sauerkraut, kimchi, roasted chickpeas, or canned beans to keep meals interesting. Rotate your purchases weekly for seasonality and nutritional variety.”

Clean out the fridge and take inventory

“Healthy meal prep can feel so daunting, especially at the end of a long work week,” says Melissa Canales, editor of Quantum Microgreens, a blog for all things microgreens. “The first thing I do when I need to reset, is clean out the fridge and take an inventory. Whatever produce I find must be prepped (washed, chopped, and easy to retrieve from the fridge). A healthy dinner becomes easy when the veggies are ready to go.” 

4. Declutter and organize for a calm home

Removing clutter and organizing your home not only creates a brighter, more spacious environment but also boosts your mood and revitalizes your space.

Less is always more

“As a professional organizer, I always recommend starting with decluttering your home by focusing on keeping items that truly bring joy and serve a purpose. Implementing a straightforward organizing system where everything has a designated place can significantly reduce daily stress. Additionally, incorporating a regular routine or ‘daily reset,’ such as dedicating 10-15 minutes each day to organizing, can help maintain a peaceful and calming environment,” suggests Carol Di Popolo, founder and organizer of Bringing Tidy Home.

Tackle your “clutter hot spots”

“I believe that promoting a sense of calm in your living space begins the moment you walk in the door,” shares founder and chief organizer of Just Love Space, Jaime Steiner. “Start by tackling your ‘hot spots’ — areas that attract clutter, like the entryway, countertops, or coffee tables. Designate specific storage containers as daily ‘drop zones,’ such as a stylish tray for keys and mail, and a basket for shoes. Labeling these drop zones can help maintain organization and encourage others to do the same. Spend a few minutes each day decluttering these areas to maintain a serene environment and build long-term habits.”

Designate a home for your belongings

“I believe in organizing a home in zones (such as sleep, work, play) with each belonging having a designated place,” shares Meghan Cocchiaro, owner of Organized by Meg. “This makes it easy to find what you need and tidy up quickly. With organizing systems and regular purging, daily life becomes more efficient, and mental clarity improves since a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind. Your home should be your sanctuary, especially your bedroom. Clutter can distract and remind you of unfinished tasks. Keep your sleep zone clutter-free by sorting items and keeping it simple. Use a notepad for thoughts and to-dos, and avoid using your phone to prevent late-night scrolling.”

5. Renew your sense of calm

Incorporating cleaning into your reset day can be a powerful way to rejuvenate both your space and your mind. A clean, organized environment often leads to a clearer, more focused mindset, reducing stress and enhancing your overall sense of well-being. As you clean, you’ll likely find that the act itself can be meditative, allowing you to reflect, unwind, and reset mentally. By the end of the day, you’ll not only have a tidier home but also a refreshed perspective, ready to take on the days ahead with renewed energy and clarity.

Use drop boxes

“Whenever my home feels a little chaotic, a quick tidy can do wonders,” states Stacy Farrell of  Homeschool Adventure. “If you’re someone who is overwhelmed by visual clutter in particular, consider using strategic drop boxes. These ‘containers of chaos’ as I like to call them make it quicker to tidy up when you’re tight on time. Try a decorative box in the living room for throw blankets, a cube shelf in a closet for non-daily use items, or a basket on the stairwell for items that need to be put away on the other floor.” 

Establish a cleaning routine

“Regular house cleaning helps a lot in maintaining good mental hygiene by lowering the levels of stress and bringing a sense of peace and order,” explains Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy. “A good living environment could place you in better control of your space, which is incredibly reasonably needed when times are stressful. Endorphin release due to physical activity helps in natural stress relief and mood upliftment. Establishing a routine by decluttering for 10–15 minutes daily will set in place good healthy habits and make your living area settle down and be more relaxed and enjoyable. People with clean houses are more nutrition-savvy and much more active than those with either messy or cluttered houses, research indicates.”

6. Improve mood and mental clarity with candles

The subtle scents of candles can further enhance the ambiance, helping to soothe the mind and elevate the overall sensory experience of your space.

Opt for candles with calming properties

“Start by choosing scents that are known for their calming properties, such as lavender, bergamot, or sandalwood,” Sabastian Garsnett, Garsnett Beacon Candle Co. based in Michigan. “Arrange the candles in safe spots throughout your space where they can cast a gentle glow without being overwhelming — think bedside tables, desks, or even in the bathroom for a spa-like experience during a soak. Incorporating candlelight into your evening routine can significantly enhance your relaxation and provide a visual cue to your mind and body to slow down and unwind.”

Choose scents tailored to the room 

“Opt for the calming notes of Sandalwood Rose in your living room, or the invigorating scents of Spice for your workspace,” suggests Palak Shah, founder and CEO of Chicago-based Infusion Candle Co. “Transform your bathroom into a spa retreat with Darjeeling, and unwind on gloomy days or during an evening reading session with cozy scents like cashmere. Experience the comforting warmth of sandalwood and rose after a long day, and elevate your yoga practice with the serene scent of jasmine and chai. Add a nostalgic touch with Bonfire Nights, making your space both welcoming and revitalizing.”

Dim the lights and play soft music to set the tone

“To create a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere at home, place scented candles with calming or grounding fragrances like cedar musk & lavender, amber, or white tea in key areas such as the living room, bedroom, or bathroom,” suggests The Candle Slinger located in Saugerties, NY. “Dim the lights and let the gentle flicker of the candle flame set a serene ambiance, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility. Or use one of our concrete candles as a focal piece to create a beautiful meditative work of art. For added effect, combine with soft music and a comfortable seating area to fully unwind.”

Opt for soy-based candles

Blissful Belle & Co suggests selecting calming scents by choosing 100% soy-based candles with relaxing fragrances like lavender, chamomile, or vanilla to help melt away stress. “Arrange the candles strategically in your favorite relaxation spots, such as the living room, bedroom, or bathroom, to enhance the cozy ambiance. Enjoy the cleaner, long-lasting burn of soy candles, which also contribute to better air quality. Dim the lights to create a serene environment that enhances the candle’s soft glow. Finally, light your candles and let their gentle glow and delightful aromas wrap you in a comforting, soothing embrace.”

7. Perfect your sleep routine

Quality sleep is essential for physical health, mental clarity, and emotional resilience. Prioritize your sleep environment to reap the rewards of improved sleep quality and overall vitality.

Declutter your space

“Getting organized and decluttering your home improves your life and makes everything easier,” suggests Camı̊lla Frēdērico, Founder, CEO, and professional organizer at The Personal Helpers. “It reduces stress and promotes mental clarity, minimizes distractions, and creates a conducive environment for better sleep. A comfortable sleep space enhances relaxation and ensures a cozy atmosphere.” 

Find a bedtime routine that works for you

Life coach Tomas Svitorka explains the importance of establishing a good bedtime routine for improving sleep quality. “Sleep quality is influenced by everything we do outside of sleeping. Common tips for better sleep include maintaining a regular sleep routine, minimizing caffeine later in the day, exercising, and eating well.

However, one often overlooked practice is establishing a good bedtime routine. This could involve a quick tidy-up, a bathroom routine, switching on a bedside lamp, having herbal tea, or reading a few pages. Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down and prepare for sleep. Over time, this routine will signal your brain to get ready for sleep, resulting in much better rest.”

Opt for subdued colors for a calm environment

Becca Bowen, color consultant at Hues to You shares their expert advice on choosing bedroom colors for better sleep. “To achieve the best quality sleep, one should choose unsaturated colors (subdued and not vivid) to provide the bedroom with a calm and serene environment. Whether you prefer light or dark colors, choosing a soothing undertone is key. Greens, blues, and soft neutrals offer a sense tranquility and relaxation. Some of my favorites are Aloof Gray, Neutral Ground, Oyster Bay, Debonair, Stillwater, and Iron Ore.”

8. Spend time with your pet

“I suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis,” shares Dr. Karyn Kanowski from Dogster.com. “With five dogs, I really worry about the impact it has on their lives on the days that I can barely get out of bed, let alone play or go for walks. What I wasn’t prepared for was the comfort and camaraderie provided by my pack, including my ordinarily very lively German Shepherd-Malinois. When fatigue gets the best of me, not only do they not complain that I’m still in bed, but they also make sure that I’m never alone, happy to stay by my side and indulge in daytime naps for as long as I need it. We don’t deserve dogs.”

9. Find a good book

Instead of reflexively reaching for your phone, cultivating the habit of choosing a good book can enrich your daily life in numerous ways. Regular reading enhances cognitive functions, improves concentration, and expands your vocabulary. Unlike passive consumption of digital content, reading actively stimulates your mind, encouraging critical thinking and deeper comprehension. It provides a healthy escape from digital distractions, reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and contributing to better sleep. By dedicating time and space to read, you can explore new worlds, gain fresh perspectives, and foster a lifelong love for learning, enriching your daily life.

10. Enhance your mood with plants and flowers

Bringing elements of nature indoors is an easy and refreshing way to revitalize your living space and lift your spirits. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, plants, flowers, and earthy tones infuse your home with energy, rejuvenation, and joy, fostering a renewed sense of vitality.

Making the most of your reset day at home: Final thoughts

Prioritizing a reset day at home offers invaluable benefits for both mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s through decluttering, yoga and meditation, healthy meal preparation, or simply enjoying activities that bring joy and relaxation, carving out intentional time to reset allows us to recharge and recalibrate amidst life’s demands.

By fostering a serene environment and nurturing our bodies with nutritious food and mindful practices, we not only enhance our productivity and creativity but also cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace. Embracing these practices regularly can transform how we approach each day, fostering resilience and a balanced lifestyle for the long term.