As the weekend winds down, it’s easy to feel a creeping sense of anxiety about Monday. The emails, the deadlines, the early wake-up calls—Sunday night can quickly turn into a countdown instead of a wind-down. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Taking time to intentionally relax and reset before the start of the week isn’t just good for your mood—it’s essential for your mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall productivity. Here’s how to build a Sunday evening routine that actually helps you start the week feeling refreshed and ready.

1.  Make a commitment to stop checking emails and work messages by a certain time on Sunday. Draw a clear line between your weekend and your workweek. This mental boundary gives your brain space to decompress and signals to yourself that rest is a priority.

2. Whether it’s lighting a candle, brewing a calming tea, or putting on a playlist of mellow tunes, create a ritual that cues your body and mind to shift into relaxation mode. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—it just needs to be consistent.

1. Sometimes, what keeps us up at night is a cluttered mind. Take 10 minutes to jot down any lingering thoughts, to-dos, or reminders that are swirling in your head. This simple exercise can ease your anxiety and help you feel more in control heading into Monday.

1. Take a short walk, some restorative yoga, or a stretch session can release built-up tension and help your body process the stress of the past week. Movement doesn’t have to be intense to be effective—it just needs to be mindful.

1. Resist the urge to stay up late squeezing the last bits out of your weekend. Instead, prepare for a restful night. Dim the lights, shut down screens, and maybe try a meditation or sleep story if your mind feels restless. A good night’s sleep can change everything about how Monday feels.

1. Instead of focusing on everything you have to do, try reframing the week ahead. Ask yourself: What do I want to feel this week? Whether it’s calm, energized, or focused, choose a word or intention that sets the tone for the days ahead.

Final Focus: Relaxing before the start of the week isn’t about ignoring your responsibilities—it’s about honoring your need for balance. A calm Sunday night can lead to a confident Monday morning. So take a breath, slow down, and give yourself permission to reset.