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Ladies, I get it—life in your 40s can feel like a constant juggling act. Between career demands, family responsibilities, and life’s unexpected twists, it’s no wonder stress can creep in and take over. But there are simple, joyful ways to reduce stress that can fit right into your busy lifestyle!
Taking time for yourself is essential for your health and well-being. That’s why I’ve curated a list of stress-busting weekend activities designed to help you recharge. Whether you’re craving peaceful at-home self-care, creative outlets, outdoor adventures, fitness fun, or meaningful social connections, give yourself permission to relax; I’ve got you covered.
Understanding Stress in Your 40s
Stress in your 40s can feel like it sneaks up on you, doesn’t it? Between balancing family, work, relationships, and personal goals, it’s no wonder so many women experience higher levels of stress during this life stage. But here’s the thing — stress isn’t just a “mental” thing; it impacts your whole body too. Chronic stress can leave you feeling physically exhausted, with headaches, tense muscles, or even trouble sleeping. It can also affect your emotional well-being, making you irritable, anxious, or overwhelmed. Over time, unchecked stress can contribute to more serious health issues, like high blood pressure, heart problems, or a weakened immune system.
Taking action to manage stress is so important because your well-being deserves to be a priority. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right? Finding ways to reduce stress—for example, through exercise, meditation, creative hobbies, or setting healthier boundaries—can help restore balance and give you the energy to keep thriving. Remember, investing in yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential!
At-Home Self-Care
Here are some relaxing at-home ideas to help you recharge with simple, indulgent rituals you can easily try. These small moments of “me time” can make a big difference in helping you feel refreshed and show up as your best self.
1. Try Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is one of the easiest and most soothing ways to reduce stress and create a calming atmosphere. Lavender and chamomile essential oils are crowd favourites, known for their natural calming properties and ability to transform any space into a peaceful oasis. You can use lavender to help with relaxation, ease anxiety, and even improve sleep quality. At the same time, chamomile is known for its soothing effects on the mind and body.
A simple way to enjoy their benefits is to add a few drops into a diffuser, filling your room with their tranquil scents. For an even deeper sense of relaxation, sprinkle a few drops into a warm bath with Epsom salts. The combination fills the air with calming aromas and also helps relax tired muscles to relieve tension after a long day.
2. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
There’s nothing more comforting than curling up in a cozy spot with a good book and a warm cup of tea, letting the world melt away for a while. Creating your own little reading nook at home can be a wonderful escape from life’s chaos and a chance to unwind.
Start with a comfortable chair or a pile of cushions to sink into, and don’t forget the fluffiest blanket to wrap yourself in for extra warmth. Add soft lighting—like a floor lamp or fairy lights—to set the perfect mood, and maybe even a faint playlist in the background to create a calm atmosphere. Another option is to surround yourself with things that make you happy, like a stack of your favourite books, a small plant to bring in a touch of nature, or a side table to hold your drink of choice.
3. Give Yourself a Hand & Foot Massage
Grab your favourite lotion, oil, or even a soothing balm, and take a few minutes to focus on easing those tired, overworked muscles in your hands and feet. Use gentle, circular motions and knead the areas where you feel the most tension—your palms, fingers, arches, or heels. This simple act of self-care will help release built-up stress and help you pamper yourself.
And if you want to take the experience to the next level, why not finish by painting your nails? Choose a fun colour or a soothing neutral shade that makes you smile every time you look at them. It’s a small but powerful way to treat yourself and boost your mood!
Creative & Mindful Activities
Trying creative and mindful activities is a wonderful way to nurture your soul and bring joy to your day. Here are some fun and inspiring ways to spark creativity and practice mindfulness.
4. Start a Journaling or Gratitude Practice
Journaling can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce stress. Consider jotting down a few things you’re grateful for at the end of every day, or write about your emotions. Whichever option you choose, this practice helps clear your mind and focus on the positive.
A gratitude list can immediately shift your perspective by putting the spotlight on what’s good in your life, while a therapeutic brain dump can help process complex emotions. Both approaches are easy de-stressing activities that require nothing more than a notebook and a pen.
5. Try Adult Colouring or Painting
Who says colouring is just for kids? Adult colouring books or freehand painting are fantastic ways to reduce stress while tapping into your creative side. These activities help you practice mindfulness by shifting your focus to the soothing process of choosing colours, filling in patterns, or creating shapes instead of dwelling on daily stresses.
Whether you prefer intricate mandalas or abstract doodles, colouring provides a calming escape from the pressures of life. And the best part is that you don’t need artistic skills. Colouring and painting are all about enjoying the process and relaxing in a simple, meditative task. Plus, studies have shown that creative activities like colouring can lower anxiety, improve focus, and even boost your mood.
6. Work in Guided Meditation or Calming Music
Feeling overwhelmed? Take a moment to reset with guided meditation or calming music. There’s a reason these are such popular de-stressing activities—they work! Guided meditations are a great way to clear your mind, improve focus, and promote relaxation, even if you’re entirely new to mindfulness practices. Many apps and websites offer various options, from short 5-minute sessions to longer, more immersive experiences.
Another option is to turn on some peaceful tunes to help reduce anxiety and create a calm atmosphere in any space. Classical music, nature sounds, or even slow instrumental tracks can work wonders. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you, and consider making it a regular part of your routine for long-term benefits to your mental well-being.
7. Bake Just for Fun
Baking can be one of the most joyful and delicious ways to reduce stress because it’s a relaxing activity and offers a rewarding outcome. The baking process requires focus and attention to detail—like measuring ingredients, mixing the batter, or carefully timing that perfect bake—to create a sense of mindfulness that can help take your mind off the challenges you face during the day or week.
Repetitive motions can also feel surprisingly therapeutic, like kneading dough or stirring up a mixture, and give you a chance to slow down and enjoy the moment. Plus, there’s the bonus of filling your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. Whether you bake cookies, cupcakes, or bread or experiment with a new chocolatey dessert, baking is a creative and fun way to set your worries aside and treat yourself (or loved ones) to something delicious.
8. Try a Simple DIY Craft
Crafting is a mindful way to relax and unwind. Use this activity to reduce your stress while channeling your creativity. Consider making candles with your favourite scents, knitting a cozy scarf to keep warm during chilly evenings, or building a vision board filled with your dreams and goals. These creative projects give you time to focus, keep your hands busy, and provide a sense of accomplishment when you finish your project.
Crafting can be a great way to explore new hobbies, learn new skills, or even create personalized gifts for your loved ones. It’s the perfect combination of reducing stress, expressing yourself, and practicing self-care, all while having fun in the process.
Outdoor & Nature-Inspired Activities
Spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to recharge and reconnect with yourself after a long day. Let’s look at some inspiring ways to bring a little more fresh air and outdoor adventure into your life to reduce stress.
9. Go for a Scenic Drive
One simple yet most relaxing way to reduce stress is to head out on a scenic drive. Picture this—you’re in your car with your new favourite podcast playing, enjoying a compelling story, an inspiring interview, or a lighthearted comedy that makes you smile. You have the car windows rolled down, letting in a gentle breeze that refreshes your mind as you drive along quiet, winding roads with no particular destination in mind.
A slow, laid-back drive is a chance to leave the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and focus on the joy of the moment. It’s a time to appreciate the small things—the sound of birds chirping as you pass by, the warmth of sunlight filtering through the trees, or the calming rhythm of your tires on the pavement. To get the most from the experience, consider driving through the countryside, where open fields stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with grazing animals or wildflowers swaying in the wind. Or you can take a route along a tree-lined road, especially during autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, creating a stunning natural canopy overhead.
For those who prefer a coastal vibe, try a drive along a seaside highway, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the salty sea air filling your lungs. Wherever you choose to go, the key is to let go of any sense of urgency, let your thoughts wander, and enjoy the soothing rhythm of the road.
10. Visit a Farmer’s Market
There’s nothing quite like a farmer’s market’s colourful, lively energy. It’s a unique way to reduce stress while connecting with nature and people. Imagine strolling through a charming weekend market surrounded by stalls full of fresh produce, handmade items, and neatly arranged flowers. The smell of ripe fruits, freshly baked bread, and brewed coffee can help you feel calm and peaceful, while the relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes you feel at ease.
Take the time to pick up some sun-ripened tomatoes, a bunch of fragrant lavender, or a carton of locally grown berries. These small moments can spark joy and ground you in the present, reminding you how delightful the simple things in life can be.
11. Treat Yourself to a Solo Coffee Date
Treating yourself to a solo coffee date is a wonderful self-care ritual and a great way to reduce stress. Head to a cozy, charming little café with a comfy chair by the window or a sunny spot on the patio. Order your favourite drink; maybe it’s a frothy cappuccino, a decadent hot chocolate, or a calming herbal tea. This solo date is your moment to pause and recharge.
Bring along a good book, journal your thoughts, or take in the ambiance and people-watch. The beauty of a solo coffee date is the chance to enjoy your company and rediscover your inner calm and strength.
Fitness & Movement-Based Activities
Staying active is an amazing way to practice self-care, especially during the weekend when you might have more time to dedicate to yourself. The key is to choose activities that you enjoy and make you feel good.
12. Practice Gentle Yoga or Stretching
Sometimes, you only need a little stretch to melt the day away and reset your body and mind. Gentle yoga or simple stretching exercises can work wonders if you’ve been sitting at a desk all day, rushing around, or feeling the weight of a busy schedule. And no, you don’t need to twist into a pretzel or attempt a headstand—something as simple as child’s pose, reaching for your toes, or even lying flat on the ground for a few minutes can make a big difference.
While you stretch, focus on slow, deep breaths, letting each exhale release more muscle tension. Stretching isn’t about perfection or flexibility; it’s about carving out a few moments of calm in your day to soothe your mind, improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and prevent aches and pains.
13. Dance Around Your Living Room
When was the last time you turned your living room into a dance floor? Maybe it’s been a while—or perhaps never—but now’s the perfect time to change that. Put on your favourite upbeat playlist that makes you want to move, crank up the volume, and go for it! There’s no right or wrong here—shimmy, twirl, or even bounce around to the beat. Whether you’re doing full-on spins, clapping to the music, or simply stepping side to side, it’s all about letting loose and enjoying yourself.
Dancing is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping and sneak in some cardio, but it’s also one of the best stress reducers out there. Moving your body releases endorphins, lifts your mood, and helps you release tension. Plus, it’s almost impossible not to smile when jamming to your favourite tunes, especially if you’re letting yourself dance without judgment. Don’t worry about nailing any specific dance moves—this isn’t about perfect choreography; it’s about the joy of moving freely and embracing the moment. So clear a little space, turn up the music, and dance like nobody’s watching!
14. Go for a Swim
If you’re lucky enough to have access to a pool (or maybe live near a community pool), swimming can be a game changer for your physical and mental well-being. There’s something naturally soothing about being in the water—it feels like a retreat from the noise and busyness of life. You can do laps to build endurance, float peacefully in the water while looking at the sky, or splash around with friends or family. The water has a way of making everything feel lighter.
Swimming is also an incredible form of low-impact exercise, meaning it’s easier on your joints compared to high-impact activities like running. It’s especially great for people recovering from injuries or anyone looking for a gentle but effective workout. At the same time, it offers that all-important endorphin boost, leaving you feeling energized and happy.
And don’t forget the added benefits of being outdoors if you’re swimming under the open sky. Pair your pool time with some sunshine—don’t forget the sunscreen—and you’ll enjoy a healthy dose of vitamin D, essential for bone health and mood regulation.
15. Try Fun, Low-Pressure Workouts
Who says exercise has to feel like a chore? Some of the best ways to move your body don’t involve treadmills, gym memberships, or complicated routines. Instead, think outside the box and make movement fun! Grab a hula hoop and channel your inner kid—it’s a fantastic way to work your core and bring some laughter into your day. Or pick up a jump rope for a quick cardio blast that elevates your heart rate. If these options aren’t your style, follow along with a light workout routine on YouTube; countless free options are designed for all fitness levels, from yoga and dance to beginner-friendly HIIT sessions.
These activities are low-pressure, loads of fun, and a perfect way to de-stress after a long day. Even five minutes of playful movement can brighten your mood, improve circulation, and help shake off any lingering tension. And remember, you’re not just exercising—you’re giving yourself a mental reset too. Remember, it’s all about finding joy in the process. You don’t need to be a fitness guru or spend hours sweating it out to reap the benefits. Every little bit counts, so get creative, get moving, and make it something you look forward to!
Social & Cozy Activities
What better way to unwind this weekend than through social and cozy activities? Here are a few ways to nurture your relationships and yourself by creating warm memories that help you release stress and feel refreshed for the week ahead.
16. Call a Friend
Taking the time to call a friend can be incredibly uplifting and energizing. In our busy lives, relying on texts or social media to stay in touch is easy, but nothing quite compares to the warmth of a real conversation. A simple phone call can strengthen connections, share joy, and remind you that you’re never alone, even during life’s challenging moments.
Connecting with a friend can be a quick check-in to ask how they’re doing or a long heart-to-heart about life’s ups and downs, hearing a familiar voice can instantly brighten your day and theirs. That quick exchange of stories, laughter, or even just sharing a moment of silence can make a world of difference.
17. Enjoy a Themed Movie Night
Sometimes, one of the best ways to reduce stress is to unwind with a cozy movie marathon. There’s something so comforting about disconnecting from the chaos of everyday life and immersing yourself in heartwarming stories. Start by thinking about which of your favourite “feel-good” classics you want to watch. Consider movies that always leave you smiling or give you a hefty dose of nostalgia. Think romantic comedies, uplifting dramas, or animated favourites. Snuggle into your coziest PJs or a soft blanket, and prepare the ultimate snack spread. Popcorn is an obvious must, but don’t forget to mix in treats like chocolate, candy, or even a refreshing drink, like sparkling water or hot cocoa, for a touch of indulgence.
The goal is to create a no-pressure zone where you can simply relax, laugh, and escape for a while. You could even take things up a notch by inviting a friend or family member to join you, sharing the joy and building memories together—swapping laughs or reactions during the best scenes is always fun. To complete the vibe, dim the lights, grab all the pillows you can find, and unplug from distractions like emails or social media. Let yourself fully immerse in the cozy atmosphere and enjoy the simple pleasure of a movie marathon. Who knows? It might just become your new go-to way to de-stress!
18. Plan a Mini At-Home Retreat
What if you could bring the relaxation of a spa and the rejuvenation of a retreat into your own home? It’s easier than you think and can be one of the most soothing and delightful ways to reduce stress. Start by creating a calming ambiance—light some candles, play soft music, and set the mood for relaxation. Treat yourself to a warm, luxurious bath infused with Epsom salts or essential oils, or unwind with a nourishing face mask.
Afterward, carve out time to journal your thoughts, reflect on your day, or set intentions for the week ahead. Take this opportunity to reconnect with yourself, tuning out distractions and focusing on your inner peace. Pair your self-care routine with something nourishing, like a smoothie bowl topped with fresh fruit and granola or a comforting and healthy snack that makes you feel good inside and out. The key to this at-home retreat is to approach your day mindfully and slowly, letting every moment feel intentional, restorative, and dedicated to you.
19. Host a Game or Puzzle Night
Another fantastic way to de-stress is by sharing lighthearted moments with loved ones. Hosting a game or puzzle night is a fun and interactive way to bond, laugh, and keep things playful. You can try board games like Scrabble or Settlers of Catan, card games like Rummy or Go Fish, or even tackle a group puzzle everyone can work on.
For an extra bit of fun, add some snacks or drinks to keep the energy up and make it feel like a proper gathering. But here’s a pro tip for stress-free fun—if your group tends to get overly competitive, maybe skip the Uno cards or other games that might spark rivalries! Instead, focus on games that encourage teamwork or create lots of laughs. This experience is about enjoying each other’s company, making memories, and fostering connection, so keep the vibe relaxed, easygoing, and full of joy.
20. Try a New Tea or Coffee Ritual
Transforming a simple cup of tea or coffee into a ritual can be surprisingly calming. Instead of rushing through your morning or afternoon caffeine fix, take a moment to slow down and embrace the process. Whether you’re brewing a new herbal tea, steeping loose leaves to perfection, or experimenting with frothy lattes and silky foam art, allow yourself to fully engage in each step. Pay attention to the details—the sound of water boiling, the soft clinking of your spoon, and the way the tea leaves spread out or the coffee swirls as you stir. Focus on the aroma that fills the air, the cup’s warmth resting in your hands, and the soothing act of sipping slowly.
The drink is important, but so is the experience it creates—a refreshing way to be in the moment and practice mindfulness. These small, intentional rituals can help center your mind, reduce stress, and bring a sense of calm, even during the busiest days.
Simple Ways to Reduce Stress and Reclaim Your Peace
Finding ways to reduce stress is one of the best gifts you can give yourself—and those around you. Have you tried setting aside time for a simple but powerful stress-reducing activity? It could be as small as taking a quiet walk in nature, trying a relaxing yoga session, or even sipping your favourite tea while journaling. The key is to pick something that makes you feel centred and recharged.
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish. It’s a meaningful way to show up as your best self, not just for you but for the people you care about. When you make time to take care of your own well-being, you’re creating the energy and strength to handle life’s ups and downs with more grace and balance.
Why not explore at least one new activity this weekend? Or even better, share it with a friend who could use extra positivity in their life. I’d love to hear your own go-to tips for melting away stress—add them in the comments below!
