'No-Commitment Days': The Trendy Self-Care Ritual Broken Down By Our Neuropsychologist

Thanks to TikTok, we've been on board with "filler episode" days for a while, finding comfort in those slow days when nothing significant happens. Now, "no-commitment days" are here to take that trend a step further and make it a regular part of your schedule.

No-commitment days are just what they sound like: days that involve no appointments, planned meet-ups with friends, or other commitments that steal your precious me time. "The idea behind this concept is to create a designated period where individuals can take a break from their usual responsibilities, obligations, and external commitments," Dr. Sanam Hafeez, NYC neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, exclusively tells Glam. "During a no-commitment day, people aim to focus on rest, relaxation, and activities that bring them joy, without the pressure of adhering to a predetermined schedule."

No time in your jam-packed agenda for a weekly do-nothing, totally off-duty day? We hear you, and we get the struggle. However, as Dr. Hafeez shares, no-commitment days might be the secret to excelling the other six days of the week.

A day of no commitments isn't purely self-indulgent (not that there's anything wrong with indulging from time to time). As Dr. Sanam Hafeez exclusively tells us, the self-care ritual can be essential to your mental health. "Taking a day off each week, known as a 'no-commitment day,' brings several mental health benefits. It's a great way to relax and ease stress, giving your mind a break from daily pressures. This relaxation allows your brain to recharge, leaving you feeling more alert and revitalized." Put simply, you're much more likely to stay sharp, focused, and motivated to crush your goals after giving yourself some well-deserved downtime.

You may also notice a boost in your mood after adopting no-commitment days into your routine. Dr. Hafeez explains, "Embracing a day without plans provides an opportunity for self-reflection, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. Additionally, the downtime encourages creativity, letting your mind explore new ideas and perspectives. Engaging in enjoyable activities, such as hobbies or simply unwinding, contributes to an uplifted mood." Next time you feel guilty for skipping plans to catch up on K-dramas or go for a solo hike, remind yourself that you're just being kind to your mind.

Observing a weekly no-commitment day in your schedule will initially require moving some things around and getting rid of obligations that don't actually serve you or your well-being. But most of all, committing to no-commitment days often requires boundaries and a shift in your mindset, Dr. Sanam Hafeez exclusively tells Glam.

Start by sharing your intentions with anyone who might be impacted by your new ritual. "Inform friends, family, and colleagues in advance, setting expectations for your availability," suggests Dr. Hafeez. "To ensure a complete break, consider establishing a physical boundary, such as turning off work-related notifications or setting an auto-reply on emails." This will help you steer clear of distractions and external pressures.

If a day completely devoted to yourself feels strange or even wrong at first, chalk it up to growing pains, and remind yourself, as Dr. Hafeez notes, that "a well-rested and rejuvenated person can contribute more effectively to your relationships, work, and personal goals." To cope with any lingering guilt, the neuropsychologist recommends starting with a shorter no-commitment time first, such as a morning before work or a full afternoon during the weekend. Then, work your way up until you feel comfortable with an entire no-commitment day.