What is your ideal way to unwind after a long day of work? It’s very common for us to push through our busy workday schedules, telling ourselves we’ll finally take a break after this week’s work. But why wait for a promise of self-care on Saturdays or Sundays? The quiet hours after work are a great opportunity to give ourselves a little self-care that doesn’t require a trip to the spa.
Like many, I saved my “me time” for the weekend. However, I wanted to find new approaches to my after-work hours after spending far too many nights feeling exhausted. Small acts like enjoying a cup of matcha after dinner without any interruptions or fifteen minutes of strolling around the neighborhood can make a big difference in my mood.
In this post, I want to share some simple, practical ways to incorporate self-care into your everyday life, especially after work. From taking a few minutes to stretch and unwind to creating a relaxing bedtime routine, you don’t need to wait until Friday to take care of yourself.
01 Stretching
Change into your most comfortable clothes. Good loungewear or pajamas can make you feel instantly relaxed. Spend a few minutes doing some gentle stretches or a short yoga routine. Making sure you release tension in your neck, shoulders, and legs. Or use a foam roller as a help to massage out tight or sore muscles, especially in your lower back and calf.
02 Hydrate
Create a calming after-work evening routine around making and enjoying a cup of your favorite beverage. If you love tea, prepare a cup of either chamomile or peppermint or any tea that is low on caffeine. Have it with a light snack like a piece of biscuit or some fruits. Sip it slowly while you relax.
03 Walk outside
Step outside after dinner for a couple of minutes to maybe an hour to get some fresh air. A walk around your neighborhood can clear your mind and get you a little leg exercise. Watch the sunset if you can catch it. Or if it’s a clear night, spend a couple of minutes looking at the moon and stars. Admiring the beauty of nature is a calming way to end your day.
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04 Take a quick shower
If your apartment is blessed with a nice bath tub, lucky you. Take a warm bubble bath with your favorite bath bomb every now and then. Exfoliate your skin and maybe try a face mask while you soak. Otherwise, take a warm shower to wash away the day’s stress.
05 Turn on feel good music
Turn on your playlist and play some relaxing music that makes you feel good and helps you unwind. You can also choose to listen to a podcast with a lighthearted topic. Let the sounds be in the background as you relax. I also recommend an audiobook if you’re into books.
06 Do your hobby
Make sure to set aside time for your hobbies. Whether it’s doodling, reading a good book, knitting a project for your cat, or even coloring in an adult coloring book, or maybe watching a feel-good show is your definition of a hobby, either way there’s no guilt in doing activities that make you laugh or smile.
07 Put the gadgets away
As soon as you get home from work, start putting your phone on silent mode. It is very important to disconnect from work or social media to give your mind a break. Once you do, you will realize how much time you have at hand. Do some small but important tasks, such as setting out your outfit for the next day and organizing your stuff so that you will be less rushed in the morning. Or doing some journaling to write down your thoughts and reflect on your day.