For the past few days, I've been exploring Mont St Michel and its surrounding areas; pretty much walking and eating my way through France. It's been beyond incredible and I'm still adjusting to the fact I'm not currently surrounded by five different languages while eating a crêpe au sirop d'érable! Anyway, I let out a massive sigh this morning when I remembered I'd cancelled this weekend's plans - assuming I'd be too tired. Honestly? I'm not at all tired, but I'm still not re-making those plans. Instead, I'm learning to appreciate the occasional 'slow weekend'. You know, the relaxing kind that involves a ton of candles, and 100% prepares you for the week ahead. But the question is, what separates a slow weekend from a dull one?
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Go out for the sake of just... going out - no cameras, seriously. Go walking, explore, keep the moment to yourself and whoever you're with - social media doesn't have to join you.
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Try that meal - the one you keep hearing about and want to taste. Get the ingredients in the house during the week, and spend a while making it for yourself at the weekend (you can always shove a pizza in the oven afterwards if it's excruciatingly bad!)
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Ditch the terrible shows - but don't ditch the tv. I'm not a hypocrite - totally addicted to both Revenge and Scott & Bailey right now! Life is too short for films/series that leave you underwhelmed, so find something you do enjoy and helps you to switch off. Better yet, start Friday night
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Shake off the Sunday night blues - regardless of how you fill the week, Sunday nights tend not to be popular with many people. But the cherry on top of the slow-weekend-cake is heading out Sunday night with your other half or friends/family (eg. relaxing meal, or play). You'd be surprised how much time it seems to add to the weekend!
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Look at your workout routine - if your weekdays are packed with tiring classes, weights and circuits, distinguish between them and your weekend workouts. Personally, when it comes to working out on weekends, I hit pause on everything besides running
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Give your mind a break - easier said than done, of course. Things that can help? Not checking and double-checking other people's social media, turning off the news and not dipping into your work
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I'd love to hear your thoughts on the concept of slow weekends - how do you enjoy winding down?
With love,
Gabrielle x
Love this post. I think slow weekends are underrated and I love that you're not discouraging us to stay away from our Netflix! Lol. I binged on Revenge, so enjoy that darling!
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We have been going out and doing online detox now that the weather is so much better. It's really refreshing to spend time with each other doing activities without the TV going as background noise. Great tips, Gabrielle!
ReplyDeleteShireen⎜Reflection of Sanity
What excellent tips to enjoy a slow weekend, Gabrielle. I am actually going to be spending the weekend with loved ones. I am hoping to have very little to do with social media, since this is a very special time for us to be together. Sometimes that stuff can really drain so much of my energy! That avocado toast looks divine, by the way!
ReplyDeletexo, janea
www.theSTYLEtti.com
I do enjoy a slow weekend. Especially when I am running around like crazy from appointment to appointment during the week. Love the avacado toast
ReplyDeleteYes, I do unplug opetty often, lol. I am all about slow weekends as well sometimes, especially this weekend. I am simply resting all day, and then off to meet my bestie for a pampering Sunday. xx
ReplyDeleteI'm a pro at slow weekends when I set my mind to it :) Love going out for nice walks, coffee and just being in the moment.
ReplyDeletewww.fashionradi.com
I love these concepts Gabrielle - even making small changes can make a big difference. You have me very excited to hear that Scott & Bailey is back on :) . For the last few days of our trip, the hubbie has asked me to do a digital detox and I've agreed...I'm actually really looking forward to it. It's so important to be present and in the moment to truly appreciate it xx
ReplyDeleteAh, sorry to disappoint you Maggie - Scott & Bailey is still just five series; I'm working my way through them!
DeleteGabrielle x
Good tips! I think a slow weekend is a necessity, now and then everyone needs to relax and recharge. No chance of that happening now with the boys, but it's possible to do a little less on the odd weekend and I take the chance to when I can! :)
ReplyDeleteHope you are having a great weekend!
Away From The Blue Blog
Oh man, the "ditch the terrible shows" one really got me thinking. I have to take a look at my watchlist and get rid of the ones I don't even enjoy watching anymore!
ReplyDeleteLA VEINE
I really enjoy relaxing and winding down at the weekend. I've been so busy the last few weeks and have really missed being able to take time out x
ReplyDeleteLuxeStyle
I think we all need to take time off from thinking haha .. yep defo easier said than done! x
ReplyDeleteLAURA | Laura Thinks About
I used to want to desperately finish a tv show even if I didn't enjoy it anymore but since a few years ago I realised that time is too short to spend your time doing anything you don't enjoy. And I feel ya about Sunday nights, I so dread them because I don't want monday to come so soon!
ReplyDeleteI love this! After a hectic past couple of days I'm really looking forward to having a chilled Sunday. Most places in Germany are shut on a Sunday which actually forces you to do chill things like go for a walk or spend a cosy day at home which is actually really nice! X
ReplyDeletemisszarabelle.com
Fantastic tips Gabrielle! I had a slow weekend last week. I totally pampered myself from head to toe at home. It was really relaxing and much needed.
ReplyDeleteKeisha xo
Thechrysalisgal.com
You deserve a slow weekend Gabrielle, and I love all of your tips. I'm going to go for a walk without my phone later today. Sounds like the perfect way to unwind. Enjoy your weekend :)
ReplyDeleteBubble baths are my go-to for winding down and I usually do an epic photography sesh for my blog if I have some spare time. You can never have too many photos, great suggestions xxx
ReplyDeleteALittleKiran | Bloglovin
Oh I want that avocado toast!! And I also do the same in the weekend! Big Xx Susanne - http://bagatyou.com
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to slow weekends, my way to go is to concentrate on enjoying the moment, whatever that moment might be. The less time spent worrying about everyday stuff the better. This is sometimes easier said or done, but there are many methods that can help us 'switch off' a bit. For example, it is always good to change our habits and routine...That can help us if we feel like our mind (or/and even our body) are stuck in a rot. Why not try to do something different on weekends? Sometimes I do a digital detox, sometimes I don't...but I try to keep thing varied.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! You're right, weekend is the perfect time to tackle a new recipe or dish. It is also great to leave the social media at home and go for a walk/outing without thinking about photos, blog posts or what not.
That avocado toast looks yummy.
http://modaodaradosti.blogspot.ba/
Boy do you speak the truth! This is certainly the kind of weekend that I am all about. That said, I do have a habit of desperately trying to make a weekend 'count' for something when really I need to just be appreciating the time to just do nothing if I so wish!
ReplyDeleteMusings & More
I love slow weekends! I actually love to go out and explore or wind down by reading something :) x
ReplyDeleteTOUCHOFGS // BLOGLOVIN
I loved to visit Mont Saint Michel as well, enjoy your weekend.
ReplyDeleteSlow weekends are my fav, sometimes we just need a time off for ourselves, great tips.
http://fashionwalkinbrussels.blogspot.lu
Great post, I totally relate to this, I often have just a nice quiet weekend before the madness of the week begins all over again. I love a weekend of nice food, kitten cuddles and maybe a movie or two with my favourite people in the world - bliss :)
ReplyDeleteRosy | Sparkles of Light Blog
My Instagram | Instagram
Slow weekends are the best. I love how relaxing and peaceful slow weekends are for me and they really help re-charge me for the week ahead. I do some morning yoga before a healthy breakfast (mostly yogurt and granola plus a cup of coffee). And proceed with my household chores (I find chores relaxing). and then on the afternoon I just lie on my bed and watch a movie or a series I don't get to see during weekdays. come evening I read a book and relax in my bedroom. the perfect weekend for me. :)
ReplyDeleteJenn
❄The Pink Lemonade Girl
❄YouTube
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I always love reading your posts because they're so different! I love having the odd weekend where I can just relax and take each day as it comes. I worry in case I get bored but I find baking, walks and watching good tv helps so much and relaxes me so much! Great post :D x x x
ReplyDeleteCyber Mermaids | Alternative beauty, fashion and lifestyle blog
I really need to enjoy a slow weekend more often and have been complaining to my boyfriend recently that weekends have become a job ticking exercise, trying to get all those things done that you don't have time for in the week. Is Scott & Bailey back btw?? I did not know this and it is one of my favourite TV shows! I will have to try and find it on catch up :) x
ReplyDeleteScott & Bailey is still just 5 series, I'm working my way through them! Sorry to disappoint you babe - also wishing they'd create a sixth series!
DeleteGabrielle x
I really want to be that person who tries loads of new recipes!
ReplyDeleteAleeha xXx
http://www.halesaaw.co.uk/
Slow weekends are the best weekends! x
ReplyDeletewww.diaryofanexpatgirl.com
You know, there's nothing like a slow weekend! Breakfast with your family, then a book with coffee and some light music in the afternoon...it's the best kind of weekend! Hope you're enjoying yours, dear :*
ReplyDeleteNatalie
http://www.passportout.asia/
Slow weekends are the best! I use them for blogging, watching reality TV and just being lazy.
ReplyDeleteANOUK
great slow weekend
ReplyDeletenew post on my blog <<< YSL Beautè Spring 2017 makeup collection >>>
have an happy day, kisses
Nice tips Gabrielle!!! Kisses from Italy and thank you for your visit,
ReplyDeleteEni
Eniwhere Fashion
Trend: accessories FW 2017/18
I need to take a break from social media and not checking every minute my instagram and twitter, it's a bad habit and takes a lot of time. In the weekend I love to go out and enjoy nature and this lovely warm weather and also take a break from watching too many shows on tv because I feel bored or don't have anything else to do.
ReplyDeleteYiota
PinkDaisyLoves
I feel like a lot of things that can potentially ruin a perfect weekend or a nice day have to do with social media. It's the best thing ever in the terms of keeping in touch and staying connected and filled in about everything, but boy, it's so harmful too!
ReplyDeleteI actually always make sure to limit my presence on social media (Twitter especially) at the weekends and just indulge in things I love and spend time with my beau and people who are dear to me.
Just recently a friend asked me to go away for half a day and enjoy Snowdonia because "it's great for photoshoots". I agree, it does have fabulous backdrops but I would really appreciate going there sans camera for once.
Enjoy France, my gorgeous girl! Can't wait to read all about it <3
xox Nadia
www.mielandmint.com
I love slow weekends. As the past few weeks have been incredibly busy for me, I really enjoyed getting proper rest and taking it easy this Saturday/Sunday.
ReplyDeletewww.mydailywear.co.uk
This post is making me desperate for a slow weekend! I haven't had one in ages now. I'm super busy all the time, with work to catch up on and of course with my blog. Plus I'm a perfectionist, so I like to *always* have things to do. However, I'll try to have a slower weekend next week, and actually cook - funnily enough, you mention crêpes in your post and I've wanted to make some for two weeks now, without really finding the time. So that is my goal for next Saturday: finally making these sugar and lemon crêpes! haha :)
ReplyDeleteI hope you'll share your adventures at the Mont St Michel with us!
Julia x
Last post: Purple Makeup with MAC and YSL | http://juliaspeaksbeauty.blogspot.co.uk/2017/03/makeup-review-purple-haze.html
I'm into slow weekends as well and like to mix it up from catching up with projects around the house to doing nothing at all. But when it gets warmer, we're all about getting out and exploring the best that NYC has to offer. Hope you enjoyed a marvelous weekend Gabrielle!
ReplyDeleteI had a slow week because I was on break and did do anything. Now I feel unmotivated but thank god I get to my normal routine tomorrow. Loved the post!
ReplyDeleteCamila,
My Vogue Style | www.myvoguestyle.com
preach it, girl! a slow weekend is so underrated these days. thanks for the tips. exactly what I need.
ReplyDeleteI love lazy weekends. As you get "older" they become ever so frequent loooool. But you don't mind one bit. Vino and pizza by the TV has become a highlight for me and extra long baths and facial treatments during the day too. Just bliss. But nothing beats taking my fur baby for a walk around the park, sans tech.
ReplyDeleteSxx
www.daringcoco.com
Lovely post Gabrielle! My idea of slow weekend has been always, reading a whole book in one seat. That of course before starting my blog. My life has been a complete mess ever since:)
ReplyDeleteHappy start into the new week my darling!
Love from https://tbymallano.com/
Great post dear!
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I love this concept, Gabrielle! Too often I feel guilty when I have the chance to finally get a 'slow weekend' - this tips are perfect. Especially, to try a meal you've been wanting to have! xx
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Great weekend tips! I've been getting into Designated Survivor and Reign on Netflix and catching up on them on Sundays!!
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day :)
Rosanna x
Rose's Rooftop
Love this post lady - some great tips! I love going out just 'because' - it's so nice to appreciate your surroundings and just take everything in. Not looking at social media or dipping into work is so key too! So important to truly have a break and step away for a bit!
ReplyDeleteHayley xo
www.frockmeimfamous.com
Love this post and reminder! Especially going out and leave social media as well as trying that meal you've wanted to try. Hahah I don't know how many recipes I have that I want to try! have a lovely week! Xx
ReplyDeletewww.thefashionfolks.com
I wish I'd read this when you posted it. I definitely didn't have a slow weekend. There's always next time though, so I'm remembering your tips. I hope France has been wonderful for you, and I hope you have an equally as wonderful new week Gabrielle!
ReplyDeleteAmber - amberelb.com
Wow, sounds interesting! You're tips are so useful!
ReplyDeleteNice blog btw (:
CM | XIII.
These all sound like perfect weekend activities! Hope your week is off to a great start!
ReplyDeleteGemma x
www.jacquardflower.uk
There's nothing I like better than a slow weekend! I'll cook a sunday roast for the family or even just my husband and me, get in a really nice bottle of wine and some sweet treats and watch a nice film... can't wait for the next one! x
ReplyDeleteKate Louise Blogs
Ah I love this, literally nothing beats a lazy weekend! x
ReplyDeleteadelelydia.blogspot.com
A slow week end sounds definitely amazing!
ReplyDeleteI'm especially for go out just to going out (especailly now that's spring), watching some film and sundays night playing around with family, so you can start the week really recharged!
Great tips, hun!
xxx
S
https://s-fashion-avenue.blogspot.it/
I love weekends like this too! It really allows me to recuperate from a hectic week and both mentally and physically prepare for the week ahead. In between relaxing, I do love to get out and about with no clear plan in sight, just stroll, it's so good for the mind, especially when it's beautiful outside! Thanks for sharing, beauty, and I hope you continue to enjoy your stay in France!
ReplyDeleteXO,
Jalisa
www.thestylecontour.com
It really is an art!! I love nothing more than a slow weekend. Call me lazy but it's the best. I could eat that avocado toast every single day... :)
ReplyDeletexx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
I absolutely love this post and might actually make it into a to do list for my next free weekend! I rarely get free weekends so when I do I tend to just collapse and watch crappy TV, but I'd definitely feel much better and set up for the week if I did more things like this!
ReplyDeleteAmy xx
www.callmeamy.co.uk
I love this post. I literally haven't stopped since I started blogging, mind is constantly whirling and I find it really hard to relax. I 100% need to find more time to relax and spend with love ones but as a new blogger feel like I have a lot to prove and have to keep it constant. Thanks for sharing your tips, I certainly need to take a few of them! Hope you had fun exploring! P.s. I loved Revenge too!
ReplyDeleteJaz xoxo
http://www.thelifeofasocialbutterfly.co.uk
Hard to beat your list but I did recently give up a commitment that was overwhelming my weekends so I could have more time with family.
ReplyDeleteDeedee
https://madeupgirl-madeupgirl.blogspot.com
Great post and ideas. I love the concept of give your mind a break, really difficult but I will be few days without internet, no conexión so it will be a really nice break.
ReplyDeleteHappy week sweetie!
www.travelera.es
I really love the slow weekend! Wonderful post!
ReplyDeletewww.recklessdiary.ru
I agree with the no cameras haha! I was out with my pal he's a booker and he couldn't get over a girl taking a photo of her meal before she ate it. Honestly, I like doing that sometimes but that was just hilarious. I think some people forget how to just relax and live a bit. I have seen so many people just not pay attention to someone talking. They are all in with the phones :) I loved your list and hope you are having a lovely week :) http://www.bauchlefashion.com/2017/03/stripes-with-attitude-for-spring.html
ReplyDeleteIt's so hard for me to leave my camera when I go explore the week end. I love so much to take pictures.
ReplyDeleteBut I really love your tips and this avocado toast looks so delicious.
xx,
Margot
https://troughthepasturesofthesky.com/
Nice post and tips! :)
ReplyDeleteMERI WILD BLOG
I'm not so much about slow weekends specifically because I don't work from Monday-Friday but I'm right there with you on the concept of it all. My sister and I are polar opposites, she jam packs every minute of every day and weekend with things to do but if I do that I just feel overwhelmed. For me I need to schedule myself some slow days or relax days, whatever you call them- just days where I don't necessarily have a bunch of things to do and there's no pressure or rushes or time constraints to do anything in particular :)
ReplyDeleteJulia // The Sunday Mode
It is so hard to just relax sometimes.. great post.
ReplyDeleteI love slow weekends. Gosh, I live for them. The week days go by so quickly and they are so busy especially when you have little ones. x
ReplyDeleteAnn-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
A great post, when it comes to the weekend I love a lazy weekend however I always enjoy doing various things also. It really depends.
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to working out I find I will workout on a Friday evening and then relax with a movie and a warm tea. Saturday nights I'm currently working, Sundays I love going to church and having some time to think and clear my head ready for the week ahead :)
Some great tips here that's for sure, I can relate to them especially walking and exploring, it's even better when the weather is good!
Laura xo
www.shehearts.net
"give your mind a break* is VERY important. In fact, I tend to use social media less, or rarely touch my phone, in order to peace out my mind too!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thequinoxfashion.com
Going for a long walk without a camera and a phone is one of my biggest goals! I'm still failing though... Absolutely beatiful pics as always Gabrielle!
ReplyDeleteKira
Kira Is Wearing
Instagram
Totally agreeing with you, we all need slow weekends from time to time! :D I most of the time work during weekends too so... there goes my relaxing moments, haha!
ReplyDeleteI am binging on TV shows too, always searching for new ones too see! :D
http://thewonderfashion.blogspot.com
So glad you're having a great time Gabrielle. I love your message. It's important to slow things down from time to time. It really helps. It's very rewarding for the mind, body and soul.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.averysweetblog.com/
I love this concept of slow weekend!! What I always do when I don't have many plans is to enjoy a cup of tea and chat with my mom and also I love painting my nails. That always helps me to relax :)
ReplyDeleteAndrea.
Seize your Style
Oh yeah, candles for me anytime! xoxo
ReplyDeleteI loved watching Revenge :) I love slow weekends, because life has become so busy and is getting more and more busy somehow. I love watching series or a good movie, candles, good food or having my bff coming over. I enjoy simply relaxing with my baby girl and my hubby and our dogs. Have a lovely day Gabriele! xoxo
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