” hard to believe we are 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 are running out of
steam? While hybrid work promised more flexibility, it 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 theres 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 are relaxing
while everyone else is dragging themselves back to the office. And if you are
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.
WORD COUNT: 569
ENDS
A Press Release on Behalf of:
Onwaba Gonyora
Director: Brahman Hills