A day off is not just “a day without work.” It is an opportunity to recharge, do what you love, and take care of yourself. It is the perfect time to rest your body and mind, but also to engage in something that truly fulfills you. Some people use it to catch up on rest, while others see it as a chance for adventure or to finally tackle things they cannot get to during the workweek.
For HR professionals and managers, it is essential to encourage employees not to spend their day off in front of a screen or on chores that can wait. Instead, guide them toward activities that will bring joy, refreshment, and energy. This helps ensure they come back on Monday feeling fresh, motivated, and ready to work. It also shows you care about their well-being outside of the office, not only during working hours.
Stay with us until the end of this article to find ideas you can suggest to your employees—activities that can lift their mood, relax their minds, refresh their bodies, and fill their workweek with new energy.
Relaxing at Home – Tips for Employees
Sometimes the best way to spend a day off is the simplest one—staying in the comfort of your own home. Encourage employees not to overlook the small pleasures, such as sleeping in, enjoying their morning coffee slowly, and spending time with a favorite book or movie.
They can create a spa-like atmosphere with scented candles, soft music, and a relaxing bath. For those who enjoy creativity, a day at home is perfect for trying new recipes, painting, making collages, or organizing old photographs and keepsakes.
Remind employees of the value of hobbies they rarely have time for—knitting, writing, making jewelry, or learning a new language through online courses. For those who enjoy being productive at home, rearranging furniture or organizing their wardrobe can be satisfying. These quick, low-pressure tasks offer visible results, creating a sense of accomplishment that can carry over into workplace tasks.
Exploring the City on a Day Off
Suggest that employees use their day off as an opportunity to see their city in a new way. There might be a museum, gallery, or exhibition they have never visited due to work commitments. Cultural experiences can refresh routines and spark inspiration.
They could take a walk through neighborhoods they rarely visit, discover hidden cafés, artisan shops, or small parks. For more active employees, renting a bike or scooter to explore the city can be a fun change. Companies could even provide weekly bike rental vouchers to promote physical activity and relaxation.
Even simple activities like walking by the river with a coffee to go can boost mental energy. Encourage employees to get out and move, even if only for a short while.
Enjoying Nature and Outdoor Activities
Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to relieve stress and restore energy. Nature has the power to calm the mind and bring inner balance. Recommend activities such as:
- Walking or light hiking
- Cycling on scenic paths
- Picnicking with family or friends
- Birdwatching or appreciating natural beauty
- Kayaking or canoeing
- Mountain biking or gentle climbing
- Playing outdoor sports like volleyball, football, or badminton
Suggest organizing a short day trip or hike with friends or family. Even something as simple as watching the sunset or noticing flowers along a walk can make the day memorable for those who love adventure. Activities like kayaking, canoeing, or mountain biking offer both physical benefits and excitement.
Hobbies and Creative Activities
A day off is a great chance to enjoy hobbies you do not have time for during the week. Creative activities help manage stress while building new skills.
Ideas include:
- Painting, drawing, or illustrating
- Writing a journal, poetry, or short stories
- Cooking or experimenting with new recipes
- DIY projects like making decorations or jewelry
- Learning new skills through online courses (language, photography, music)
- Gardening and caring for plants
- Completing puzzles or playing board games
These activities allow for a productive yet relaxed day and create a sense of satisfaction and achievement.
Social and Community Activities
Social interaction can significantly improve mood and make a day off more fulfilling. Encourage employees to spend time with friends and family, as meaningful relationships are essential for overall well-being and workplace productivity.
Suggestions include:
- Coffee or lunch with friends
- Family lunch or picnic
- Going to the cinema, concert, theater, or exhibition
- Organizing board games at home or outdoors
- Taking short trips to nearby towns or natural spots
- Participating in group sports or recreational activities
Even a short coffee meet-up or walk can make a difference. Many employees stay home, intending to rest, but end up feeling unproductive. Remind them that time spent with loved ones is invaluable and can make their day truly worthwhile.
Self-Care on a Day Off
The daily rush often makes people forget to care for themselves. Remind employees that self-care is essential for maintaining health, energy, and happiness.
Self-care ideas to recommend:
- Enjoying a warm bath or spa ritual at home
- Practicing meditation or yoga to reduce stress
- Reading a good book or listening to favorite music
- Visiting the hairdresser, beautician, or getting a massage
- Doing light stretching or taking a walk to refresh the body
- Preparing a healthy meal or a favorite dessert
- Keeping a gratitude journal and writing down thoughts for relaxation
These moments not only rejuvenate the body but also strengthen mental balance, helping employees feel more fulfilled and energized.
What HR and Managers Can Do
When you suggest ways for employees to spend their day off, you are not intruding on their personal lives—you are showing that you value their well-being. This builds trust, loyalty, and a workplace culture that supports a healthy work-life balance.
Motivate employees with coupons, gift vouchers, or discounts, or send them relaxation tips. On the last workday of the week, email a list of “mandatory relaxation tasks” or send small gifts to their home, such as an eye mask, scented candle, yoga mat, or Pilates ball.
Encourage them to exercise, get outdoors, and use their free time wisely. By actively supporting their well-being, you contribute to a happier team and a healthier workplace community.