So you’ve done a full day in work, you get home and you still find yourself checking your emails or thinking about what you need to do for the next day. Or you’re running around sorting your home life and your kids lives…either way you’re not able to switch off and actually relax for a few minutes. But don’t worry you’re not alone and we have some tips to help you properly leave your work behind and take a few minutes of self care just for yourself.
Write a list for tomorrows work
To stop yourself from constantly thinking about your work all evening, write a list of what you will need to do the next day. Maybe do this before you even leave work, so its done and dusted and you can properly step away for the evening. Just jot down all the tasks you will need to get done the next day so I can get your day off to a good start the next morning. You can do this for your home life to, making a to do list is a great way to allow your mind to switch off rather than worrying about getting everything done the next day, or forgetting to do something
Get out in nature
Getting out of your usual living space can be the best way to allow yourself time to relax and reset mentally. Sometimes going for a walk isn’t always an option, you may not have much time, or you may not live someone nice to walk around, so just taking 5 minutes for yourself in your garden can be a great alternative. Make a cuppa and just sit in your garden for a few minutes to yourself, wrap up cozy if its chilly or sit under a sun shade if its a bit wet. The fresh air and change of scenery will do you a world of good
Take up an exercise class
Now this may not be one for everyone, but exercise is a great way to relieve stress. You gain focus when exercising as your mind and body need to stay on track with the physical activity you are participating in. It helps you clear your mind of any worries you may have. If you’re doing an exercise like boxing or martial arts you can physically punch out your stress and get a relief you need. And often, after you’ve had a good exercise session you will find it easier to relax and get a good night sleep.
Distract yourself with a game
Sometimes if I just wanted a 5-10 minute switch off I find playing a game on my phone or laptop can be a great way to focus on something other than life. Im no serious gamer so I like games I can dip in and out of easily and that aren’t complicated, maybe just do a quick round or level at a time. If Im on my phone I have a bubble pop game and Disney Emoji Blitz. Or if I am on my laptop I usually hop onto a site like solitaire.org where I play the classic solitaire card game or I love a game of Panda Mahjong. They have Word Games, Logic Puzzles and other card games too.
Buy a colouring book
Colouring in isn’t just for children. It’s a tremendous meditative and creative activity for adults too. Buy yourself some colourful pens or pencils, and one of the 100’s of adult colouring books you can now buy. I have a few beautiful ones but my fav is still my sweary adult colouring book, lol!
Read a Book
I think ‘Read More’ is often one of those goals that lots of us have in life. So why not put down the phone and pick up a book in the evenings. You don’t need to be scrolling instagram or Facebook mindlessly every night, you’ll get a lit more enjoyment, and it’ll do your mental health the world of good to step away from the screen and into the pages of a really good book…Just make sure its not work related! You’re trying to get away from your day to day job! Check out the Amazon Book Charts for some great ideas of what to read next
Find a hobby
A great way to switch off from your day to day work is to take up a hobby. It can bring an element of routine into your leisure time and give you something to look forward to. It doesn’t matter too much which hobby you take up as long as you enjoy taking part in it. The enjoyment you get from partaking in your hobby is the perfect antidote to a stressful day!
Take a Bath
A simple relaxing hot bath will help relax your whole body, allow your mind to calm itself and release any tension in your muscles. Adding some essential oils or a nice bubble bath with notes of lavender, sandalwood or clary sage are the best for tackling stress and anxiety.
Listen to some music
Music is another thing that has the power to transport you somewhere else. Either play some calming music or if you’d rather pop on your favourite track and crack up the volume and just let yourself enjoy the music. Listening to music can have a very calming effect on the body.
