After finishing up the workday, you probably want nothing more than to come home and relax. While plopping down on the sofa and watching television is one way to unwind, doing it too often can result in a feeling of listlessness. Instead, consider engaging in productive things to help you relax. Here are some ideas to assist you in restoring your mind, body and soul after a hard day’s work.
Get Active
If you’ve experienced a stressful day, try walking, running or weight lifting. Exercising not only keeps you in excellent physical condition but also helps alleviate anxiety and pain by releasing endorphins. These hormones cause a feeling of euphoria, which increases mood. If the workday leaves you feeling upset, engaging in physical activity might just be the answer.
Pamper Yourself
While exercising is often an appropriate response for battling the anxieties of the post workday, another possibility is to give yourself some love. Consider going to a spa for a massage, facial or mud bath. You’ll feel better, too, if you get a manicure or a pedicure.
If you don’t want to go out, bring the spa treatment to your house. Relax in the tub with your favorite book and a glass of wine. A bath is especially beneficial if you have a physical job because it allows your achy joints and sore muscles to relax. Think about adding Epsom salt to the bath as it is known to ease physical pain, reduce swelling and decrease stress.
Write Down Your Thoughts
Buy a journal and put your work thoughts into writing. This process will allow you to leave your feelings on paper rather than letting them fester inside your head. Record everything from your emotions, ideas, and dreams to your goals. For instance, if one of your goals is to save up for a Southern Caribbean cruise, make a note of it and work towards it. Writing the goal down makes the dream real, which will help you achieve it.
If you’re feeling particularly stressed or depressed after work, add motivational quotes or personal achievements in the journal. They will lift your spirits and serve as a reminder that you’re an exceptional employee. Everyone has good days as well as bad days at work; a journal will help you battle the bad days and remember the good ones.
Get Involved in a Hobby
What do you like to do in your spare time? What activities bring you happiness and peace? By engaging in a hobby, you’re able to take your mind off of the day and do something that you love. It’s important to find an activity you take pride in. This activity can be something that you already do or something you’ve never tried.
For example, if you used a scrapbook and loved it, try it again. You can revive an old hobby and make it just as meaningful. On the other hand, perhaps you want to try sewing or crocheting.
Finding a hobby where you create something, such as making a sweater or jewelry, is particularly helpful in unwinding after work. The creativity needed to make things causes your brain to release dopamine, promoting overall pleasure.
Whatever hobby you choose, remember that participating in that activity is a great way to destress. If the hobby ends up adding to your anxiety, find another one to try.
Clean Up
Cleaning the house may not be exactly what you had in mind after work. However, taking the time to clean and organize is a great way to declutter your mind. Not only does cleaning help you mentally, but it also ensures that your house will be spotless. If you clean after work, your weekends will be open for fun.
It’s important to actively destress after work. Relaxing may be difficult after a long day, but it’s essential for your health. Luckily, there are a plethora of things you can do to unwind. Pick some of your favorites and apply them after work to ensure you feel calm on a regular basis.