Written by Katharine Chan
Published Oct 01, 2026 | 5.5 minute read
Key Takeaways
Taking time off from work is invaluable, but it often slips away in a blur of errands, chores, scrolling and unfinished to-do lists.
The most restorative days off, however, aren’t necessarily the busiest or the most productive—they’re the ones that balance relaxation, enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment.
That’s becoming increasingly important as workplace burnout continues to rise. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ 2026 Workplace Mental Health Poll, about 30% of employees feel very stressed, up from 19% in 2024.
Whether you’re taking a vacation day, holiday or personal day, these nine strategies can help you make every hour count.
Your day off will likely feel more relaxing and fulfilling if it has some structure. Rather than creating an exhaustive itinerary, consider focusing on just a few priorities.
Start by deciding what kind of day you actually need. You might want a true couch day, a productive reset, a creative afternoon, an active outing or a chance to spend time with people you care about. Giving the day a loose theme can make it easier to focus on what will feel most restorative.
A need might be doing laundry, grocery shopping or scheduling appointments. A want could be reading, baking, taking a long walk or meeting a friend for lunch.
Try choosing one or two items from both your needs and wants lists. That way, you can take care of something important without letting chores take over the entire day.
Switching out of work mode can take intentional effort.
“Many people leave work physically, but their nervous system is still carrying the pace and pressure of the week,” says Nilou Esmaeilpour, a registered clinical counsellor and approved clinical supervisor. “The body may still feel on alert, while the mind keeps replaying conversations, thinking about unfinished tasks or preparing for what’s coming next.”
One way to reset is to do something outside your typical routine, such as:
These small rituals can help your brain separate work time from personal time.
READ MORE: Get More: Peace of Mind
Consider using your day off for an activity that’s just for you, such as playing music, fishing or practicing photography.
“Hobbies can help us reconnect with curiosity, creativity and enjoyment, especially when so much of the workweek is focused on responsibility and performance,” Esmaeilpour says.
Whether you’re picking up garden supplies, upgrading your camera or finally buying that instrument you’ve been eyeing, financing Synchrony-issued credit cards can help you spread the cost of qualifying purchases over time so you can invest in the hobbies that bring you joy.
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An ever-growing body of research has shown that spending time in nature can boost your mood, reduce stress and increase your overall well-being.
In addition to many health benefits, it can also have cognitive benefits, such as better attention and working memory. Even just hearing sounds associated with nature—bird songs, anyone?—can be therapeutic.
And don’t worry if you don’t live near the ocean or a national park. “Simply getting outside can help you slow down, become present and reconnect with your surroundings,” Esmaeilpour says.
READ MORE: 12 Tips to Better Plan Your Holiday Vacation on a Budget
Sometimes the best way to recharge is by feeding your curiosity or experiencing something new.
Research suggests that experiences often contribute more to long-term happiness than material purchases because they create lasting memories and meaningful social connections.
Some affordable—and often free—ideas include:
READ MORE: 8 Essential Tips to Help You Prepare for a Road Trip
If you’d rather not travel very far on your day off or exert too much energy planning something extravagant, just stay close to home—or even in your home.
For example:
Little changes around the house can make downtime feel more special.
A few thoughtful upgrades—like a cozy reading chair, a better Bluetooth speaker or an outdoor fire pit—can completely change how you spend your free time. Larger investments, such as a new television, patio furniture or gaming console, may deliver years of enjoyment if they fit your lifestyle and budget.
Before you buy, check out Synchrony Marketplace for deals and offers on everything from tech gadgets to chic home décor.
READ MORE: Light My Fire: Backyard Fire Pits for Every Budget
Spending meaningful time with people you enjoy being around can boost happiness and help counter the subtle isolation that often builds during a busy workweek.
“Safe and supportive relationships help regulate our stress response,” says Esmaeilpour. “Feeling seen and understood can help both your mind and body unwind.”
Take a bit of your time off to plan for the week ahead. Spending an hour on meal prep, organizing your workspace or automating recurring bill payments can help make workdays smoother.
Try to visualize these tasks not as more work, but as a kind gesture your future self will be grateful for.
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Katharine Chan, MSc, BSc, PMP, is a Canadian writer who covers wellness, personal development, relationships and culture for a variety of publications, including Verywell Mind, HuffPost Canada and CBC Parents. She is also the author of three books and has over 15 years of experience working in British Columbia’s healthcare system.
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