In Ireland one of the downsides (albeit a very small downside) to a glorious Saturday or Sunday is we feel morally obliged to make the most of it with outdoor activities or suffer the guilt of being inside and ‘wasting the day’. So let’s look at how we can make the most of a dirty weekend. Yes I’m talking weather-wise – apologies to anyone who feels they’ve been mislead by the title.
It’s January – if you haven’t done it already now’s the time to take the tree down - really, waiting til Easter isn't the answer...even if it is particularly early this year. Wrap all the decorations up and stick them under the stairs or in the attic or wherever until next December.
De-clutter! I’ve taken to using organising consultant (yep that’s a thing), Marie Kondo’s mantra ‘if it doesn’t spark joy’ chuck it – and my bedroom has benefitted hugely – it looks about twice the size as it did before I started – not only will this give you more space but it really is great for your head space too. Argos currently have canvas storage boxes – two for €4.99 which are fantastic for making the most of shelf space.
Speaking of headspace – meditation – you’ve been meaning to try that for ages right? Download the headspace app and give it a whirl. The first ten days are free. I’m a recent convert and can’t recommend it highly enough. The other day I was just thinking to myself how much more present I feel, having started a daily (well...almost) meditation…and subsequently spent the following 15 minutes looking for my keys having mindlessly thrown them somewhere…it’s a work in progress.
Cooking – that cookbook you got for Christmas or recipe you spied online – what a perfect day to try it out. Also an opportunity to do some batch cooking and stock the freezer for the week - oh look at you oh so organised!
Read a book – I love a good read, but find it’s usually something I do when I’m about to go to sleep so I’m only a couple of pages in and I conk out. How about curling up on the couch all nice and cosy like and really getting stuck in and don't feel guilty.
It’s January – we're hanging on for dear life until payday, so think of this as a great opportunity to stay in and save some cash…if this is your aim then ignore the next suggestion…
Research – planning to go on holidays this year? What better way to get yourself through these initially dreary days than having a jaunt to look forward to. Whether it’s a weekend or a longer event, staycation or awaycation, this is the perfect kind of day to do some research and maybe even some booking.
In need of some exercise but dare not venture outside? Try one of the many online fitness class – HIIT, Pilates, Yoga you name it there’s something available. Personally I like Yoga with Adrienne, TX Yoga, the body coach (although I find Joe Wicks' hair distracting - how can it be so beautiful?), Bodyfit by Amy and PilatesAnytime.
That 2000 piece jigsaw puzzle you got for Christmas? Now’s your opportunity to get at least one corner of it done.
When that rain finally abates, grab your coat and get some fresh air. You’ll be ready for it.
