Since my office and home share the same area, sometimes it can be hard for me to unwind and relax at home. I’m sure any of your who work from home know what I’m talking about. I struggle with turning work off, especially on days when my to-do list is extra long.
It’s something I’m working on though. I’m trying to set a more structured schedule for my day so that I can enjoy my nights at home with Rob without stressing about unfinished business.
Here are a few of my go-to things to do to help me instantly relax at the end of the day.
10. Work Out
I have to admit, I don’t always like doing this, especially in winter! It gets dark so early that it always feels later and for whatever reason, I don’t make it to the gym. But when I do, I feel amazing! It’s so easy to come back from there and not think about work again until the next day. Thankfully we have a gym in our building, so I don’t have an excuse!
9. Light a Candle
A calming scent floating around the house and flickering light always make my place feel more like home than a work space. This mokara candle and this scent are two of my favorites. Both candles burn for at least 85 hours, so it’s totally worth!
8. Dim the Lights
Something about soft light makes me feel so much more relaxed and calm, anyone else? This one can easily be paired with a few other relaxing items!
7. Make Mint Tea
I drink a lot of tea, but at the end of the night, I don’t want any more caffeine. Mint tea is soothing and calming and is easy on the stomach which makes it good for an after dinner drink too!
6. Breathe Deep
Sometimes when I find myself getting worked up and frustrated, I take a step back, close my eyes and take 10 really deep breathes. It sounds too simple to make a difference, but it helps slow your heart rate down and put things into perspective quickly. I always feel better after doing that!
5. Turn Your Phone on Silent
I struggle with this one! Part of my job requires me to be on my phone, checking and posting to Instagram, and it’s easy to get sucked in. It’s also easy to get caught up in what’s happening (and not happening) on social media, but if I turn my phone on silent and put it on my bedside table, it’s so much easier for me to forget about it for a few hours. Not being able to easily grab it and check, allows me to easily relax and man, does it feel good!
4. Play Calming Instrumental Music
Something about playing music with no words is really relaxing for me? I feel like it engages a different part of my brain. I’m just enjoying the way it makes me feel instead of singing along.
3. Meditate
Meditation isn’t for everyone, but it is seriously one of the best ways to relax. I actually haven’t practiced meditation in a while, but this has me thinking I should get back into it. If you don’t know where to start (I sure didn’t!), this app is my favorite. I love the guy’s calming voice and he makes meditating seem less scary. It really changes the way you think too which should help you to be more relaxed in general over time.
2. Apply a Face Mask
This falls somewhere between relaxing and pampering. Okay, it’s both! I’ve recently started doing a face mask 2-3 times per week and not only does it leave your skin feeling soft and smoother over time, but it’s also really relaxing. Just like a mini spa day! Right now this resurfacing mask and this one are my favorites.
1. Pour a Glass of Red Wine
If all else fails, a glass of red wine always takes the edge off for me. Sip it slowly and combine a few more of these relaxing elements to the mix! Just keep it to one glass though, having too much wine ends up making it harder to sleep and leaves you feeling tired and groggy!
How do you like to relax at the end of the day? Tell me in the comments!
