Switch Off for Summer: A tiny routine to actually relax

Done with exams? Congrats. Now don’t accidentally stress your way through your whole break. This is a simple, repeatable way to move out of school/work mode and into summer mode - without drama or long plans. Short, practical, and easy to remember.

The 3-step switch (takes ~5–10 minutes)

1. Box & close (2–3 min)

   • Put your notes/books in one place (a box, a bag, a shelf). Close the lid or zip it. Physically closing equals mentally closing.

   • Pick one small “end token” — a post-it that says “Done” or a pen you won’t touch until term starts.

2. Pick 3 summer things (2 min)

   • Choose one rest habit (sleep later, nap plan), one move (walk, skate, swim), one fun project (game nights, sketching, learning a song). Keep them tiny and doable.

3. Phone rule (1–3 min)

   • Decide a single rule and stick to it: phone-free first hour after waking, no socials after 10pm, or phone in a drawer while you do your “move” each day. Make it obvious and simple.

Why this works (short)

• Physical closure signals your brain that the school chapter is over.

• Three tiny choices give structure without pressure.

• One clear phone rule lowers background stress and helps you actually switch off.

Quickstart (do this now — 5 minutes)

• Throw your books in a box and zip it.

• Write your 3 summer things on a note and stick it on your wall.

• Set your phone rule (use Do Not Disturb or a visible reminder).

Pro tips

• Schedule one “no-plan” day per week — literally do nothing intentional.

• Keep a loose wake range (don’t flip your whole sleep clock unless you want to).

• Trade plans — agree a weekend hang with a friend so you actually meet up.

• Do one small creative thing each week; no pressure, just fun.

Heads-up
If your brain feels stuck, overwhelmed, or low for more than a couple of weeks, tell a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult and consider speaking to a health professional. If you feel unsafe, reach out to a trusted person or emergency services right away.

Summer freedom — checklist

• ✅ Books/notes boxed and closed

• ✅ One “end” token (post-it/pen/box) in place

• ✅ 3 summer things chosen (rest / move / fun)

• ✅ One simple phone rule set and ready

• ✅ One social plan or mini-project pencilled in

📴 Switch off. 😎 Do less. 🎉 Enjoy more. 🌞Summer’s for you.