Unfortunately, there are some barriers to being able to switch off. Work mobile phones and laptops are all too accessible to us during times of rest, and the temptation to just check e-mails or deal with a few tasks can be difficult to ignore.
There are some things you can do, however, to help achieve the sense of true peace and relaxation that come with a proper holiday. These changes are small things but, if taken seriously, they will soon become ingrained as habits.
Making a set time to disconnect from all electronic devices each day is a great start. Stick to this rigidly (including phone) and use the free time to do important things with your family, such as helping children with homework or reading them a bedtime story. You can check your e-mail one last time before bed but then switch it off again. Switch your television off a little before you go to bed, too – it will make you feel calmer and sleep better. You could even consider getting rid of one of your electronic devices altogether (do you really need them all?)
Once per week, you also need to completely shut down (for example, at a weekend day). On these days, take time to indulge in a leisure activity and shut your brain off. You could also consider taking a holiday and plan towards this during the year. Make sure it is a real holiday, and don’t spend time while you are there checking in with work e-mails.