8 Ways to Disconnect from Work this Winter Break ~ By Christina

Now more that ever before many of us have our home and work lives totally intertwined. It’s important to take time away when we’re supposed to be away. Here are a few ways to make that happen.

#1 Turn the notifications off: Don’t get sucked in by the big red circles and the Bing-Bonging on your phone. Go ahead and check your email, just do it on your own terms.

#2 Make plans with your family: Whether that’s a movie marathon, baking cookies, or a round of Monopoly set out some activities, make a schedule, and stick to them

#3 Get outside: Depending on where you live that maybe a walk along the ocean, a skate across the pond or some winter basketball in your driveway. Study after study shows that getting outside lifts spirits, lowers stress. Dress for the weather and get out there.

#4 Put Your Out of Office On: Even if you plan on checking messages, let people know you are on holiday. It will lower their expectations of a response and give you more time to respond which you can use to fill with leisure activities.

#5 Start Your Day Well: Don’t roll out of bed and check your phone. Begin with some journaling (simply list all the things you are grateful for!), some exercise, and a healthy breakfast. Starting the day with intention sets a solid path for the day to be all yours.

#6 Blast the Music: Doesn’t matter what kind – cheesy Christmas tunes, Ma'oz Tzur or the latest from your favourite artist – if it makes you feel good then turn it up. Bonus points for dance parties in the living room.

#7 Lend a Hand: There are many, many way to volunteer this year – from Zoom calls with seniors to shovelling the walk of your neighbours. Check out Volunteer Canada for more info: https://volunteer.ca/index.php?MenuItemID=420

#8 Read a Book: It doesn’t have to be a Danielle Steel novel to get a departure from work, but do pick one up that is going to set the mood you’re after. If you want to chill don’t pick up something that will get you fired up.  There is pure joy in getting lost in the pages of a book.