How to Unwind After a Busy Week
Is work hectic at the moment?
Perhaps you’re spending time trying to juggle meetings and emails with the school run. Before you know it, it’s Friday again and you’re trying to work out how you got to the end of another week.
It can be easy to become swept up in the day-to-day. But if you need to find some ways to relax, here are some ideas to help you switch off.
Why focus on relaxation?
According to the Mental Health Foundation, in 2022, mental health was the 5th most common reason given for sickness absence, accounting for 7.9% of occurrences. This statistic highlights how important it is to prioritise your own wellbeing.
One way to do this is to focus on activities that help you recharge after a busy week.
- Create a calming environment
Your home should be a sanctuary where you can fully relax after a busy week. Small changes in your environment can transform it into a calming retreat. Begin by decluttering your living areas so that you can free up space. Introducing calming scents like lavender or sandalwood, either through candles, diffusers, or essential oils, can promote relaxation.
Dimming the lights or switching to soft, warm lighting can also help signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. Pair this with soothing music, and you’ve created the perfect environment for relaxation.
- Try relaxation techniques
Deep breathing exercises can help you release tension, while progressive muscle relaxation allows you to relax each muscle group in turn.
Meditation is another proven method, often leading to a more focused, calm state of mind. There are countless resources available to guide you through these exercises, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner. Apps like Calm and Headspace, for instance, provide guided meditation sessions.
- Engage in light entertainment
Playing a video game, solving a puzzle, or trying some interactive games can help you switch off without requiring too much effort.
For those who enjoy a touch of excitement, roulette offers a fast-paced way to forget about work stress. Or you might want to try a jigsaw puzzle for something offline.
- Have a movie night
Choose films from feel-good genres such as comedies, family movies, or uplifting dramas. These types of films help you escape the stress of everyday life and provide a comforting, relaxing experience.
Alternatively, binge-watching your favourite TV series is a great way to immerse yourself in a different world and forget about the pressures of the past week.
- Get some fresh air
Spending time outdoors is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to de-stress. Whether it’s a stroll in a nearby park, a quick jog, or even just sitting in your garden, fresh air can help reset your mind.
Spending time in nature is good for your mood and helps to reduce stress levels. It also boosts energy levels. Take advantage of the UK’s many parks and green spaces for a calming outdoor experience, no matter where you live.
- Treat yourself
After a demanding week, why not have a soak in the bath, enjoy your favourite meal, or buying something you’ve had your eye on? Giving yourself permission to indulge can provide a much-needed mental boost.
Take the time for you this weekend.