How I combat Sunday Scaries

It's March, and I'm trying to feel lucky...but the impending anxiety of the week ahead is admittedly getting in the way.

I've decided to return to blogging as a way to share about anything and everything and build my identity...online and off.

So I present to you, for the month of March...I'm feeling lucky...ish!

What does luck even mean, is luck even real, can luck be manifested...I'm not sure. But as a big day, week, and month lies ahead of me, I know that sometimes there are little things that help you set up for success. Or at least ease the nerves.

I've had Sunday Scaries my entire adult life. The second I wake up, I start to feel that pit in my stomach of all that is to come. I realized this was starting to ruin half of my entire weekend, and I've been working on a way to minimize those scaries ever since.

This isn't a science, nor does it entirely make the week easier or more enjoyable. But I do know it calms my nerves, increases my joy, and allows me to make the most of my weekend while feeling as prepared as I can for the new week.

I hope this brings you solace, eases your own nerves, or inspires you to minimize your own Sunday Scaries in an approachable, non-intimidating way.

Without further ado, I present to you: My Sunday Scaries tips and tricks.

1. Get in some form of movement

Ever since I started teaching yoga sculpt, I've found teaching weekend mornings to be a blessing and a curse. Yes, admittedly half the time I do NOT want to get out of bed and wish more than anything I could catch up on sleep. However, I have found that without fail, I ALWAYS feel slightly better after. My anxiety is diminished, my brain feels productive, I've got a good sweat in...it's worth it in the end. Of course, movement does not HAVE to be hot yoga. It can be some gentle stretching, a light walk, or a run...if you're into that. Any form of movement can ease those nerves and clear the brain, so I recommend it!

2. 1-3 self-care/wellness activities

This varies week to week, but I like to keep this momentum going post sweat by doing things that make me feel good, physically and mentally. I obviously have to shower the sweat off, and then I usually take 10-15 minutes to do something that feels good. Today, that was red light therapy, meditation, and gratitude journaling. Other times that's painting my nails, engaging in extra skincare, drinking a ton of water...or some combination of the above.

3. Eat a nourishing breakfast

Again, this varies greatly. Today it was Nutella toast and a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios. Other days it's a latte and pastry from a local bakery. Regardless, it needs to be satisfying to start the day off on the right foot.

4. This goes for lunch, dinner and snacks, too

Not to get too sciency on you, but we know that there is a lot of physical and mental benefits to consistent nourishment. Eating every 3-5 hours leads to blood sugar stabilization, emotional regulation, and consistent energy levels throughout the day. This inherently also regulates your nervous system, which is crucial for minimal scaryness. I loosely think about a balance of carbs, proteins and fats when I can...but again, I'm not wasting too much brainspace on this.

5. Do something FUN

Whether this is a midday adventure or something leisurely at home, you deserve to take your mind off things for a while. It allows you to still soak up those pleasant weekend vibes without much fear of what's to come (but don't worry, we'll tackle that later).

My go to fun activities out and about:

• A walk through the park, by a body of water, or somewhere serene

• Window shopping (or shopping shopping...always buy a fun drink or treat regardless)

• Going to a museum (many of which have free admission hours!)

• Going to a movie (shoutout Regal membership)

My go to activities inside:

• Baking something fun and whimsical

• Watching a silly, cheesey, awesome TV show or movie (today I chose Bridgerton)

• Play a board game, a video game...anything mind numbing

6. Minimal Prep Work

Remember: no matter HOW much you prepare, you will never truly be ready until you're actually doing all the things...don't waste your time doom prepping. But you can do SOME things to set yourself up for success. For me, this includes figuring out my schedule, figuring out what I'm going to eat, and any immediate prep work for the next day.

I plan out my dinners for the week (mostly by scrolling TikTok, Pinterest, and Substack for inspo), as well as 1-2 breakfast and lunch options. If I can, i place a grocery order for pickup (because grocery stores on the weekend are a scary place).

For next day prep, I answer any necessary emails, I visualize my day start to finish, and I lay out any necessary clothes/snacks/tools etc for the next day.

And then I PUT IT AWAY, physically and mentally. Tomorrow will come no matter what I do, and I've done what I can...time to move on.

7. Give yourself time to unwind

You've eaten dinner, you've eaten your treat, now it's time to unwind. Shut the computer, take a shower, get comfy and cozy. Light a candle, turn off the big lights, start to settle in. Maybe pour yourself a glass of wine, or find your vice of choice. Then take what you need to tire your brain, whether that's watching aforementioned show, reading a book, or otherwise.

Speaking of which...my unwind time is fast approaching. Here's to a fab week! Until tomorrow<3.