There’s never been a time in history when people have worked more than they do now. It can be overwhelming and exhausting to work hard all day, every day – not to mention difficult on your mental health.
But the good news is that it’s possible for anyone with a demanding schedule to find ways of winding down after work and making their life easier. This post will provide you with 12 easy ways to unwind after work so you can live a happier, healthier life!
Why Should You Unwind After Work?
Taking some time to unwind after work can help reduce stress, which can positively impact your physical health. When you unwind after work, it can help you clear your mind and relax. Unwinding will give your body the time to rest so that when you go back to work tomorrow, you’ll be less stressed out and ready to face the day with more energy?
12 Easy Ways to Unwind After Work
1. Read a book
One of the best ways to unwind after work is by reading a book. You can either read from one of your favorite books or start something new and unwind as you turn each page.
Reading a good novel will allow you to forget about any stress that may be plaguing you, leaving behind only pleasant thoughts and feelings.
2. Listen to calming music or sounds
Sound is a great way to unwind. When you listen to calming sounds, your heart rate slows down and it’s easier for the body to relax.
Try listening to classical music like Mozart sonatas or nature sounds such as rain, waves, and waterfalls. If these sounds don’t provide enough relief then try meditating with a white noise machine playing in the background.
3. Stretch, do yoga or get some exercise
Exercise is a great stress reliever and can help you unwind after work. Research has shown that even moderate workouts such as brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes three times a week, can lead to an improvement in mood and less negative feelings about life.
Go for a hike, a bike ride, lift some weights, or, if you prefer something less intensive practice yoga and stretching. If you have a sedentary job, this can really help with those back pains and aches.
4. Take a bath with candles
There’s nothing more relaxing than unwinding in a hot bath with some calming candles to set the mood.
Light a few candles in the bathroom, fill up your tub with steaming hot water, bubbles, and bath bombs optional, and unwind for at least an hour.
Take it even further by working on deep breathing exercises or reading a favorite book while you soak away all of those stressful thoughts that are weighing down on you.
5. Drink a cup of herbal tea
Drinking a cup of herbal tea is an excellent way to unwind. The act of drinking from a cup provides some physical contact and comfort, which helps aid in relaxation.
Herbal teas, such as chamomile, can be used as natural remedies for various ailments such as headaches or insomnia.
6. Take a nap or rest on the couch
Naps are a great way to unwind after work. They not only help you feel refreshed and relaxed, but they also improve cognitive function and have been shown to increase productivity levels throughout the day.
If you’re feeling restless at home, try taking a nap or resting on your couch for 15 minutes before dinner time with some calming music in the background.
7. Engage in a creative activity
Many people unwind by engaging in a creative activity that they enjoy. This could be something as simple and low-key like drawing, or as elaborate and time-consuming as sculpting.
The key is to stay focused on the task at hand, instead of letting your mind wander off into other thoughts about what you need to do later tonight or tomorrow morning.
8. Tend to your plants or plant some herbs
Picking up your garden, tending to flowers, or planting herbs can be a really calming and soothing process. You don’t need any special skills for this, just water and sunlight (and patience).
Caring for plants feels therapeutic because it nurtures a sense of purpose within you. Seeing your plants grow and thrive feels restorative and rewarding.
9. Use aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is one of the simplest ways to unwind. Use an essential oil diffuser to diffuse calming essential oils, such as lavender.
Your home will smell divine, and using scents that promote relaxation will induce a sense of calm. If you prefer, you can also light scented candles.
10. Give yourself a foot massage
Giving yourself a foot massage feels luxurious and can help you unwind after a long day at work. Sit on a couch, chair, or on a bed, apply some oil or lotion and start by massaging the soles of your feet.
Pay close attention to which areas of your foot feel pain and spend extra time rubbing out the painful spots. Use your thumb in areas that can use extra pressure.
11. Eat a nourishing meal
After a long day at work, it’s important to eat a nourishing meal. Eat a meal with lean protein, whole grains or other complex carbohydrates, some healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables.
These nutrients will help your body unwind after the stress it has endured throughout the day.
12. Listen to a podcast related to your interests
Podcasts are one of the simplest ways to unwind. They’re a great way to maximize your time by doing something that’s productive, but relaxing at the same time.
There is an endless supply of podcasts for every interest imaginable – from news and politics all the way through to cooking and design.
Final thoughts
When we work hard all day, it can be tough to stay focused and alert. And if you’re not careful, the stress of your job might start spilling over into other parts of your life.
But when you make time for a little relaxation each evening after work—whether that means reading a book or listening to calming music—you’ll find yourself feeling more balanced and less stressed overall. So take some time out for yourself this week by doing one (or several) of these 12 easy ways to unwind at after work.