What’s not to appreciate about weekends? The pressures of work dissipate, and possibilities seem boundless. In fact, the only downside to weekends is their fleeting nature. Two days is hardly sufficient to unwind, rejuvenate, and gear up for the upcoming week.
So, what can we do to elongate those treasured days? Research suggests that engaging in new experiences can genuinely alter our perception of time. According to David Eagleman in his book, *The Brain: The Story of You*, embracing unfamiliar activities provides our brains with innovative data, effectively “stretching” our time awareness. Conversely, indulging in routine activities (like binge-watching Game of Thrones) often fails to stimulate our minds and can render our weekends fleeting and forgettable. This Saturday morning, make a commitment to step out of your comfort zone and explore what’s different. Here are eight suggestions to inspire you.
1. Start your day early
Lengthen your weekend by beginning your day sooner. Rise earlier than your usual weekday wake-up time, tackle a few household tasks, and treat your dog to an extended walk. By the time most people are starting their days, you’ll be refreshed and ready to embark on new adventures. (See also: 9 Benefits of Being a Morning Person)
2. Opt for an alternative mode of transport
Wherever your weekend leads you, make the journey unique. Slow down a bit by biking or walking to your destination. Allow the trip to become part of the excitement. Stop for coffee along the route, browse a local bookstore, or visit a nearby farmers market. For longer journeys, consider engaging with fellow passengers on public transport, which also alleviates parking headaches.
3. Organize an escape room outing with friends
Escape rooms present themed adventure games where players must collaborate to unlock puzzles and riddles to “escape” from a room within a limited timeframe. Success hinges on teamwork, clue-following, and strategizing. Rally a group of friends for an exhilarating evening of fun at your nearest escape room location.
4. Explore yard sales and estate sales
Beyond the fantastic deals, yard and estate sales provide an opportunity to learn the stories attached to the items you discover. This engaging experience is truly one of a kind. If you’ve never spent a Saturday perusing block-long yard sales or meandering through a house filled with sale items, give it a shot. You may find yourself hooked.
5. Take a brief trip
Change your usual weekend rhythm with a spontaneous getaway. Pack the essentials, invite a few friends, and explore different regions in your area. Many bus and train services offer day trips to local attractions. Bring a book along and let someone else take the wheel for a change.
6. Arrange a game night
When was the last time you allocated an entire evening just to enjoy yourself with loved ones? Hosting a casual game night brings everyone together, stimulates conversation, and fosters a sense of fun that we all could use more of. If the weather permits, consider outdoor games like ladder golf, cornhole, or badminton. If indoors, go for timeless favorites like Jenga, charades, and Pictionary. (See also: How to Host a Great Game Night)
7. Disconnect from screens
Digital devices can keep us locked into work, entangled in social issues, and absorbed in unproductive media. They also tend to drain hours from our days. Foster new ideas and experiences by designating part of your weekend as screen-free time. (See also: 10 Important Reasons You Need to Cut Back on Screen Time)
8. Volunteer your time
Volunteering positively impacts others’ lives while also allowing us to develop new skills and strengthen our community ties. Consider offering your time to local causes like animal shelters, youth programs, or food banks. Just a few hours each weekend can dramatically shift your viewpoint.
