The long Easter weekend approaches with 4 days off and maybe a two-week holiday for those with school-aged children. It’s a lovely time for a break with spring advancing: a chance to unwind, spend time with family and friends, and recharge before diving back into work and routines.

However, with so many things to do and the temptation to simply “relax,” it’s easy to lose track of time and find that the break has passed in a blur. To make the most of your Easter break, a little planning goes a long way.

Whether you choose to spend your time organising your life, enjoying well-deserved downtime, or engaging in some fun activities, here’s a guide to help you plan your time over the Easter break and ensure you return feeling refreshed, accomplished, and ready for the challenges ahead.

1. Set Your Priorities

Before jumping into the long weekend take a moment to think about what you really want to do and if there is anything that you want to accomplish. Setting your priorities will help you focus your energy.

• Relax and recharge: If you’ve been feeling burnt out, use this time to relax and unwind. Whether it’s reading a book, watching a film or tv series, or just napping. Relaxation is important. 
• Catch up on personal projects: Maybe there’s a task that you’ve been putting off. From organising your wardrobe to finishing a DIY project – with 4 days at your disposal you could complete a task. 
• Socialise and get outside!: If spending quality time with friends and family is your goal, plan activities that allow you to enjoy their company and make the most of fresh air and (hopefully) warmer weather!

2. Create a Flexible Schedule

Whilst it might sound counterintuitive, planning your time doesn’t have to mean sticking to a rigid schedule but it does help you to balance leisure and productivity without feeling overwhelmed.

• Create blocks of time: Break your day into (big) blocks and allocate a different activity to each. For example, you may wish to complete all tasks in the morning so that the afternoon is free for something fun.  You’ll find that you will achieve your priorities, and of course, you can also choose to spontaneously change the plan!
• Allocate “free” time: Allow yourself some unstructured time so you can enjoy things that come up in the moment. Last minute invitation for pizza and a film? Yes please! 
• Use a to-do list: It can be helpful to jot down things you want to accomplish (like organizing your workspace or grocery shopping) without making it a strict timeline. This will give you a sense of achievement without feeling too pressured.

3. Get Outdoors

Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for your mental and physical health.

• Take a walk or hike: Visit a local park, wood, or nature reserve. Whether it’s a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, getting outside will help clear your mind and keep you active.
• Go on a day trip (or a long weekend away!): If you have the time, consider taking a trip to somewhere new. This is a great way to break away from your usual surroundings and discover!
• Easter egg hunt or picnic: If you have young children or simply want to enjoy a nostalgic tradition, organise an Easter egg hunt or a picnic in the park with football or rounders if sitting around isn’t your thing. 

4. Take Advantage of Local Events and Activities

Easter is often marked by special local events, from Easter egg hunts at National Trust properties, food festivals or car shows. What’s happening in your local area?

• Easter egg hunts: Local councils or stately homes tend to host Easter egg hunts. It’s a fun activity for kids and families to enjoy together.
• Farmers’ markets and car shows: Springtime markets are full of fresh, seasonal produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats. Take a stroll through your local farmers’ market for a leisurely and satisfying outing.

5. Rest and recuperate – it’s self-care time!

The Easter break is a perfect time to reset and focus on self-care. After a busy few months it’s a great time to plan self-care activities to ensure you feel your best. 

• Pamper yourself: Treat yourself to a spa day at home with a long bath, face masks, or a DIY manicure. Or go crazy and book yourself into a spa day!
• Practice mindfulness: Take some time each day to practice mindfulness or meditation. Even 10-15 minutes can help clear your mind and reduce stress.
• Exercise: Get your body moving, whether through yoga, swimming, running, cycling, or a home workout. Physical activity releases endorphins, helping you feel better both physically and emotionally.

6. Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones

A long weekend is a great time to connect with family or friends and spend quality time with those who matter most. As we never know what the weather will be like, plan both an inside and an outdoors option such as a family dinner, film marathon, or a dog walk or family outdoor game such as tig or ‘back to base’.

• Family meals: Prepare a special Easter brunch or lunch. Bake traditional Easter foods such as hot cross buns and Easter biscuits.
• Games and activities: You can’t beat a good board or card game.
• Catch up with friends: If you haven’t seen friends in a while, now is the perfect time to catch up. Plan to go for a coffee, a (dog) walk, or even make time for a catch up call.

7. Unplug

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to spend hours scrolling through social media or checking emails, even over a long weekend. But with 4 days off, why not unplug from your devices and focus on the present moment. 

• Designate no-screen times: Set a time each day (e.g. after dinner) when you put away your phone, tablet, or laptop and do something else.
• Digital detox: If you want to go all in, challenge yourself to a 4-day complete digital detox. You might be surprised by how much more present and mindful you feel.

How can we help you get Easter ready?

Whilst this article is all about ideas to make the most of your four days (or more) over Easter, we can guarantee that you will enjoy it a whole lot more if you haven’t got work hanging over you.

Over the next few days, make a to-do list and work out exactly what you want to accomplish at work or at home BEFORE the break. Do you have time to do it all? 

If time is against you, contact the dynamic Hour Hands team. With experts in bookkeeping, administration, diary management, research and planning, we can help you get on top of your to-do list, get your accounts up to date and all payments reconciled, or clear your inbox and plan activities for Q2 and Q3 all before you go away.  Or book us now to support you after Easter so you have the peace of mind that you have a plan in place and the support you need for your return.

Simply fill in the contact form on this website or give us a call. We’d be happy to help!