5 Ways To Unwind After a Long Day

With work and technology comes a constant buzz that makes it hard to find time to relax and recharge. Many also struggle with unwinding when it doesn’t involve phones, tablets, and Netflix. That’s why today, I want to share with you my favorite 5 tips to unwind to help you achieve the ultimate relaxation after a long day!

Switch Your Mindset

Before you go ahead with your relaxing evening, it’s important to switch your mindset from work mode to off mode. Tell yourself that the time you’re about to spend with yourself does not mean time to plan for work, think of new ideas, or ponder the difference between living and existing (although if you have a good answer to that I would love to hear it). Unwinding physically starts with unwinding mentally, so clear your mind of thoughts and focus on the night to come.

Listen to Chill Music

Music is frequently used to turn up or get energized, such as dancing to EDM at the nightclubs or blaring pop music during a workout. But a great chill musical playlist does wonders with getting your body to relax and unwind. Soothing music is scientifically proven as a link to our emotions, meaning it serves as a very effective way to manage stress. Your heart rate and pulse slows, and you’ll find that your blood pressure and stress hormones will decrease as well. Look for acoustic, instrumental, or slow paced tunes with little background noise. I love the Piano Guys, Secret Garden, and ballads. Play it while you’re taking a bath, reading a book, or taking a walk. Personally, when I find myself unable to fall asleep, I’ll plug my earbuds in and I’ll be drifting off in no time.

Create a Peaceful Environment

If someone puts you in the middle of bustling Times Square and tells you to meditate, can you do it? Probably hard, right? That’s why creating a peaceful environment for yourself is so important when trying to unwind. It doesn’t have to be a sound tight room, of course. If you’re in your house, for example, try to rid your surroundings of possible distractions such as a TV, radio, and noise. Most people are unwinding at night after a long day, so your neighborhood will likely be quiet and you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful night of relaxation. A person’s perfect environment varies, but what comes to my mind is my bed, lots of pillows, and a warm and snug blanket.

Light Candles

Who doesn’t enjoy candles? They smell great, look cute, and most importantly, do wonders with helping to unwind. Light a pinewood scented candle, turn off the lights, close your eyes, and picture yourself camping beneath the stars. Because there’s most likely a candle with every scent imaginable, the possibilities are endless to transform your room into a beautifully scented location. Candles also create the perfect subtle lighting to remind your body that it’s time to sleep, so lighting a few during a bath or while reading is a great way to end a long day.

Just Breathe

Some may not count this as a tip or method, but I believe sometimes the key to relaxing and unwinding after a tiring day is just to breathe. If you want to get serious, meditate. Deep breathing releases stress hormones and pent up emotions. Take time to sit down, close your eyes, and just focus your breathing in an even rhythmic pattern. While you’re deep breathing, imagine yourself in your favorite location, such as a meadow or by the beach. Let your mind float as your worries leave your body, and relax.

Last Updated on February 27, 2024