What are your plans for the weekend? With The Sopranos wrapped up, I’m diving back into my bedtime reading. Right now, I’m indulging in Rental House by Weike Wang, whose writing is witty, perceptive, and concise in a way that keeps you turning the pages. What are you currently reading/watching/eating? Wishing you a fantastic weekend, and here are a few interesting links from across the internet…
This Valentine’s shop is stunning — particularly this ring.
This vibrant apartment in Germany is a paradise for book lovers. (Big Salad)
An insight into what it’s like to audition for SNL.
Dining on the ‘family meal’ at Angie Mar’s restaurant. “Most restaurant staff are immigrants. Some are documented; some are not… Even if diners never sit at the table during family meals, we’re part of that family too. We have a duty to support our brothers and sisters in any way we can this year, next year, and beyond.” Absolutely loved this essay, worth a read.
Chilling.
A compilation of immigrant rights to discuss with family, friends, and neighbors.
How cozy is this Cornish cottage?
Netflix is rebooting Little House on the Prairie.
A taste test of cottage cheese. (Cottage cheese paired with cantaloupe is my go-to diner order.)
By the way, it’s trendy now to wear tights with open-toed shoes.
Remember my friend Abbey Nova, known for her garden makeovers? She just launched a newsletter. One of her initial finds was this print, which I promptly ordered for my sister’s birthday, haha.
Oops.
Lastly, here are three reader comments:
Emily O. shares: “My youngest recently told the family they identify as nonbinary. Later, my mom told them, ‘When Emily was your age, she wanted to go by ‘Em,’ so I bought her this ‘M’ charm. Now it’s yours, as a reminder that we will always address our loved ones by their chosen names.’”
Anna comments on four fun things: “I’m revisiting The Book of Delights audiobook by Ross Gay, and it’s making my winter brighter. After each chapter, I notice random delights. Last weekend, while at a state park prepping to hike, I saw a woman getting her horse ready. The horse turned its head toward her, and she softly kissed it on the nose, just like you would a dog or cat. Warm and reassuring, a true delight!”
Kathleen remarks on my chocolate-themed birthday party: “It took me a moment to recognize this feeling — it’s reminiscent of how I felt looking at my older sister’s prom pictures back in the day! You look so happy, so lovely, and so well-celebrated. Happy birthday to my virtual big sister.”
(Photo by Celia Catalino/Stocksy.)
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**Wishing You a Fantastic and Refreshing Weekend: The Significance of Rest and Rejuvenation**
Weekends are universally valued periods within the week. They provide a crucial retreat from the whirlwind of daily existence, enabling us to recharge, reconnect, and regain focus. Whether you intend to fill your weekend with events or simply anticipate some peaceful downtime, dedicating time to relax and refresh is vital for your mental, physical, and emotional health. As we wish you a wonderful and refreshing weekend, let’s delve into why weekends hold such significance and how to maximize them.
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### **The Significance of Rest and Rejuvenation**
In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to become entangled in the ceaseless rhythm of work, obligations, and duties. Nonetheless, research consistently indicates that resting is not merely a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:
1. **Benefits for Mental Health**
A break over the weekend allows your mind to unwind and reset. Constant stress can drive you toward burnout, anxiety, and even depression. By distancing yourself from work and engaging in enjoyable activities, you afford your mind the chance to recharge, enhancing your mood and overall mental state.
2. **Advantages for Physical Health**
Ongoing stress and excessive work can adversely affect your body, resulting in fatigue, diminished immunity, and potential long-term health problems like heart disease. A calming weekend can lower stress hormones such as cortisol, lessen blood pressure, and improve your physical health overall.
3. **Heightened Productivity**
Ironically, taking some time off can boost your productivity. When you come back to work post-restful weekend, you’re likely to feel more clarified, energized, and creatively charged. Indeed, studies indicate that those who regularly take breaks often perform their work more efficiently than those who do not.
4. **Enhanced Relationships**
Weekends present the ideal chance to enjoy quality moments with your dear ones. Whether it’s a family outing, coffee catch-up with friends, or simply sharing a meal, these times help bolster your connections and form lasting memories.
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### **Suggestions for a Relaxing Weekend**
While weekends are designed for relaxation, being intentional about how you spend this time is equally important. Here are some suggestions to optimize your weekend:
1. **Disconnect from Work**
Establish boundaries by disabling work emails and notifications. Allow yourself the freedom to wholly step away from professional duties so you can concentrate on restoring and unwinding.
2. **Emphasize Self-Care**
Use the weekend for activities that nurture both your body and soul. This could include indulging in a long bath, practicing yoga, meditating, or simply snuggling up with a compelling book.
3. **Engage with Nature**
Research shows that time spent outdoors reduces stress and elevates happiness. Whether it’s hiking, strolling through a park, or just lounging in your garden, connecting with nature can be remarkably revitalizing.
4. **Pursue Your Passions**
Weekends are perfect for indulging in hobbies or activities that bring you bliss. Be it painting, cooking, gardening, or playing an instrument, engaging in what you love can be profoundly satisfying.
5. **Catch Up on Sleep**
If your week has been hectic, consider using the weekend to reclaim some rest. Sleep is crucial for bodily repair and recharging, so don’t hesitate to sleep in or enjoy a nap.
6. **Plan (or Not Plan!) Thoughtfully**
Some thrive on having busy weekends filled with activities, while others prefer a spontaneous approach. Decide what suits you best. The aim is to feel relaxed—not overwhelmed.
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### **The Strength of a Positive Mindset**
As you approach the weekend, remember that relaxation involves mindset as much as actions. Rather than fretting over what you “should” be doing, concentrate on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Give yourself permission to release stress and embrace the current moment.
A positive outlook can elevate even the simplest weekend into a refreshing experience. Whether relishing a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, binge-watching a favorite series, or enjoying time with loved ones, approach every moment with gratitude and awareness.
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### **Final Thoughts**
Weekends are a precious opportunity, allowing us to step back from the everyday grind and center our focus on what truly matters. By prioritizing rest, self-care, and meaningful connections, you can transform your weekends into not only enjoyable but deeply restorative times.
So, as we wish you a wonderful and refreshing weekend, we encourage you to use this time to nurture yourself, recharge your spirit, and savor life’s simple pleasures. Remember, a well-spent weekend is an investment in your overall wellness, laying the groundwork for
