After a long day at work, it’s best to carve out some time to relax and de-stress. Many people say that they don’t have the time, that they don’t need it, or that they experience guilt while relaxing. You may even think this way. However, it’s actually beneficial for you both physically and mentally to take a break. By making time to decompress each day, you are valuing yourself and your health.
Every person’s version of relaxation is different. Here are some activities that you may consider squeezing into your daily routine.
Practice Yoga
Change into some comfortable athletic clothes, such as a pair of leggings or sweatpants, and find a spot in your house with a good view of your TV or laptop. Start with a beginner’s yoga video. You’ll find that the stretches and soothing voice of the yoga instructor will relax you. Yoga also improves strength and flexibility, relieves back pain, gives you more energy, and de-stresses you for a better night’s sleep.
Go for a Walk
Going for a walk and enjoying the fresh air is another great way to decompress. You may even walk to a coffee shop or another local business and purchase a tasty beverage. Since 44% of the world’s gasoline consumption is accounted for by drivers in the United States, walking is a much more eco-friendly way to get to a business in your community. Grab a drink and walk around your town or neighborhood.
Read a Book
Have you been meaning to get to the books on your bookshelf? Utilize downtime after work to pick up a book. You can cuddle up on your couch or sit on your back deck or patio. Find a comfortable chair and put your feet up. Reading is a great way to forget about your own worries and dive into another world.
Watch Your Favorite TV Show
Perhaps you’ve been meaning to binge-watch a new show you’ve heard people raving about, or maybe you want to rewatch your favorite series. Enjoy an episode or two each day after work. It’s something to look forward to, and it allows your body to relax on the couch and perhaps get in some laughs after a stressful day at work.
Take a Nap
If you work in IT or business, which is the United States’ number one market, then you’re likely sitting at a desk with your eyes glued to a computer all day. After work, you may consider taking a nap. You’ll be able to rest your eyes and body, and you’ll have more energy to get other household tasks done afterward.
Meditate
Another great way to decompress after a day of work, or even before you go in, is practicing meditation. Verywellmind defines meditation as “a set of techniques that are intended to encourage a heightened state of awareness and focused attention.” It is supposed to help relieve stress and headaches as well as improve self-awareness and mindfulness. This practice could even help you perform better at work and in other areas of your life.
Write In a Journal
Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and ideas may be a great way for you to de-stress after work. It’s healthy to think through your feelings, especially if you’re having troubles in your work or personal life. It can feel invigorating to write it all out, take a deep breath, and move on with the rest of your night.
Try Out a New Recipe
If you love cooking or baking, trying out a new recipe may be the best way you relax. Get out the necessary ingredients and supplies and get to work. You may want to play some music and dance around the kitchen a bit as you start cooking a new dish or baking a yummy dessert to enjoy later that evening.
Take a Hot Bath or Shower
Taking care of your body is another way to decompress after work. Take a hot bath or shower and relax your mind and body. Shave your legs, wash your face, and brush your teeth. Did you know that tooth decay is five times more common than childhood asthma and 20 times more common than diabetes? Taking an hour after work to tackle your beauty and health routines will help you in the long run as well as make you feel clean and relaxed afterward.
Clean Your Room
Some people find joy in cleaning. Not only can it lower stress and fatigue, but it will also lessen germs in your home, relieve your home of clutter, and reduce pollen counts in your home during the spring. For many people, a clean and organized space puts them at ease. If you’re this person, pick a room each day after work and get cleaning.
Sit Outside
Simply sitting outside and relaxing is a great way to get fresh air and enjoy some time to yourself. You may read, draw, journal, meditate, or practice yoga while you’re outside in your back or front yard.
Decompressing after work is important. Find an activity that relaxes you, brings you joy, and allows you to enjoy some time alone. Make time to de-stress after work, as it is important for your overall health and productivity.
