10 Ways to Enjoy a Night at Home (Beyond Netflix!)

I suck at relaxing. The few times I have an impromptu hour or two at my house, I sometimes don’t know what to do with myself. I often default to reality television but days later I often regret not doing something more personally meaningful, fulfilling or relaxing. Anyone else have this (first world) problem? Ha, certainly bigger issues out there though taking time to really relax can instantly recharge you and help you overall. So whether you’re solo in your cute digs, or have a couple of kids constantly seeking your attention, find ways to better utilize time.

Here’s 10 fun ways to do so now!

Spa night in! Next time you’re in Ulta, Sephora or your drug store, treat yourself to a new sheet mask, a deep cleaning pore treatment or something else you’ve been dying to try (my daughter LOVES doing face masks with me!). This way when you have a chill night, you’ll have all the supplies and are not wishing you had something indulgent to try. Try this or this.

Get reading. Sigh, I read books far too little — it’s embarrassing — but as soon as I sink into one, I magically find all this time. Happen to you? Get a book now — whether it’s girly and indulgent, an intense read or maybe in the self/motivation category — and this way it’s ready for you. No excuses.

Explore your closet. While most other rooms in my house can really feel like house cleaning, I have found myself on a Friday night inadvertently decluttering my closet and it’s the most rewarding feeling. Use these tips from a boutique owner for a successful closet edit. With the warmer weather coming quickly, now is the perfect time to declutter… and make a list along the way if there are a few things you know you need; it really helps curb the impulse purchases.

Make (or bring in!) your favorite meal. Put on your favorite music and take time to yourself in the kitchen to whip up your favorite dish while dancing around like no one’s watching. Or, no shame in the delivery game…. just make it something indulgent and yummy. Instead of going the traditional “fast casual” route, splurge on that insanely delish, perhaps pricier dish from a real restaurant that you’re always craving. There’s something pretty amazing about eating it in your pjs in the comfort of your home.

Call your bestie, or gram! Do you only make calls on your way to and fro? #guilty. Text your friend earlier in the day and ask for a phone or Facetime date, or call your family just to say hi and to catch up. No one around? Write out a few “just because” letters and mail them… think about the smile you’ll put on someone’s face the next time they open the mail box. Worth it!

TV binge fest. Hey… sometimes you need to veg in front of a screen. Though my suggestion is not exactly Netflix. 😉 If you haven’t yet watched the show Younger (it’s on TV Land — I know that sounds random but trust me here), please start NOW and thank me later. It’s seriously so good. And, maybe don’t convey this to my husband (wink wink) but Josh is so sexy that my friends and I can’t stop talking about him. Each ep is also only 22 minutes and filled with so much juicy fun and laughs that you easily crank through.

Girls Night In. I know I’ve mentioned it a million times, I live for an amazing girls night in. All the perks of a GNO but without having to get dressed up, sit awkwardly at dinner table and spend lots. I’ve recently done a few, either with a casual dinner, a potluck, some wine and your best friends. Be sure everyone comes over in their pjs. Bonus points if you ladies do face masks, too! Seriously, best night ever.

Rediscover an old hobby with your family. Do you love to paint? Sew? Play board games? Enjoy a night either to yourself or with your family to do fun activities that bring you joy, all without the blast of the television.

Get moving. OK, so maybe this one is not at your home however gym time, or a walk around your ‘hood is such a great way to decompress after a long day or week. I sometimes hit the gym around 5 pm and love being able to take a shower, slip on my pjs, put on all the face lotions and be done for the day. You can also grab a buddy and go for a walk together — fun way to spend time with someone and get in your steps, too.

Plan a vacation. I’m already starting to hear about friends plan their December trips, and confession: it’s giving me anxiety. If you’ve been putting off coordinating your calendar or getting a vacation (even one night away!) on the books, make the commitment ASAP and plan what you want to do. It takes time to plan and taking a few hours might leave you wiped but it will also energize you for the fun ahead.

 

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