Labour Day wasn’t made for working harder on your time off. It was created to appreciate the contributions of workers and give them a real break. And what better way to appreciate that than by actually slowing down?
Whether you’re solo, with family, or juggling both, here are seven refreshing ways to spend Labour Day at home, without feeling like you’re wasting it.
1. Start Your Morning Slowly
Sleep in if you want to (we know you've earned it). Or wake up with the sun and stretch on a Tatami Sofa Bed. Either way, start the day without an alarm or an inbox. Make tea, and eat your breakfast that you tend to skip while running late for work. Most importantly, don't rush.
2. Tidy Up Your Space
No, we’re not talking about a full-blown spring clean. But giving your space a quick refresh, like folding away clutter, lighting incense, or fluffing your Shikibuton, can help your home feel like the sanctuary it’s supposed to be.
3. Have a Picnic Indoors in Your Comfiest Clothes
Who said picnics have to be outside? Unfold your Tatami Carpet, scatter some cushions, prep a snack tray, and invite your family or housemates to hang out!
4. Try Something Fun You’re Terrible At
Paint with your non-dominant hand. Sing in a way you've never sung before. Try a yoga pose you usually avoid. Labour Day can be a judgment-free zone for creative imperfection.
5. Reflect on What Gives Your Life Meaning
Ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy) is a Japanese concept meaning "reason for being". Take some time to chat or journal about what fills you up. What has given your life meaning lately? What would you like to enjoy more of?
6. Do One Small Thing Your Future Self Will Appreciate
Write or record an encouraging message from your current self to the person you will be 10 years from now. Organise one messy drawer. Book that massage. Send that text. You’ll feel lighter, more refreshed, and maybe even a little more motivated after you've done those things. Future you will thank you too.
7. Do Absolutely Nothing
You don’t always need to be productive to make a day meaningful. Let yourself do absolutely nothing. Lounge on your Tatami, stare out the window, listen to the birds chirping, or let your mind wander without a goal. Give yourself permission to be completely still, present, and unplugged.
Honour Labour by Honouring Rest
This Labour Day, whether you’re deep in conversation or deep in a nap, remember this: choosing rest is choosing balance. It’s a celebration of the work you’ve done and a commitment to the well-being that makes work worth doing at all.
So pause. Stretch. Laugh. Reflect. That’s what this day is for.
