“It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the year. For many, 2025 has flown by in a blur of work, relentless life admin, and the constant pressure to keep up. Ever notice how some Wednesdays – you know, hump day – feel like you’re running out of steam? While hybrid work promised more flexibility, it’s also blurred the lines, often making it harder to switch off and truly rest. But there is a smarter way to recharge that most people overlook.
Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills, one of South Africa’s most beautiful five-star country escapes in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, believes a midweek break could be the new secret weapon to achieve more balance. “Let’s be honest, any break, whether it’s over a weekend or in the middle of the week, is a gift. Who doesn’t love a chance to unwind, kick your feet up, enjoy nature or a relaxing soak in a jacuzzi?” she says.
That said, there’s something about a midweek break that just hits differently. “The beauty of it lies in the timing,” Gonyora continues. “By definition, a break is a pause, an interruption, and there’s something uniquely satisfying about taking a break from the Monday-to-Friday grind in the middle of the week. Unlike the familiar weekend downtime, a midweek escape feels unexpected and indulgent…like ‘ghosting’ work.”
Midweek escapes aren’t just mentally refreshing either; they’re also full of practical perks, which she shares:
- Better value for money: Many hotels and lodges offer midweek specials, with savings of 20-40% off peak rates. Brahman Hills, for example, offers a midweek escape for two with a saving of R1,850 on a two-night stay, money that could easily cover your meals instead.
- Natural week division: With midweek breaks typically running Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Thursday, you avoid the worst part of the traditional work week. No Sunday night blues, no Monday morning struggle – you’re relaxing while everyone else is dragging themselves back to the office. And if you’re leaving later in the week, even Sunday night and Monday feel easier thanks to the excitement of having something to look forward to.
- Peaceful, uncrowded experiences: Midweek breaks come with a different kind of luxury: quieter pools and tourist attractions, open tables, and that rare sense of having the place (almost) to yourself. No crowds. No queues. Just calm.
- Mental health benefits: Research by the American Psychological Association has found that short breaks from routine, even just two nights away, can significantly lower stress and boost emotional well-being. Many people report feeling noticeably more relaxed within 24 hours of changing their environment.
- Work flexibility: With hybrid work arrangements and remote capabilities, you can manage necessary or urgent work tasks from a beautiful location with inspiring views, without missing a beat. A change of scenery often boosts creativity and productivity too.
- Better availability: Popular weekend destinations often have last-minute midweek availability, opening doors to bucket-list properties or those rooms with the best views that get snapped up immediately for weekend stays.
So, if you’re feeling stretched, tired, or just in need of a reset, consider this your sign. Take a midweek break. Step away from the rush and give yourself the space to breathe. “Because, Gonyoro concludes, “sometimes, the best way to finish strong isn’t to push through. It’s to pause mid-stride, reset, and return with more clarity and energy than before.
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