Let’s face it – whether a 9 to 5 or part time, work can be stressful. Running from meeting to meeting, working against deadlines and dealing with demanding clients can really take its toll. Don’t worry, in 2020, we’re changing all of that. Once it’s time to head home, it’s time to unwind and live your best life. Everyone has their own thing that they do to destress, whether a glass of wine and chocolate, a high-intensity workout, or a calming bath with candles and soothing music. Here are a few things to try this year to help you relax after clocking out.

 

Me, Myself and I 

Being selfish is ok when it comes to making sure your mind, body and soul are in a healthy space. Grab your favorite candle, turn on your favorite album and throw a bath bomb in the tub. Skip cooking – unless it makes you happy, of course – and order some take out. If being alone doesn’t sound like your kind of night, hit up a friend, get dressed and hit the town. Looking your best can help you feel your best, after all. Stop by that bar you’ve been meaning to, or grab last-minute reservations at the new place in town everyone is raving about.

Feng Shui Your Way

Change up your environment! Clean, organize and rearrange the furniture. Try something completely unconventional. It just might work out. Hit up the local department or dollar store for some decorations, or get crazy with a brand new accent wall. Chromotherapy experts have been studying how color can have an impact on mood. Try a red for stimulation, blue to sooth you out or a yellow to bring happiness and confidence.

If you’re looking to add some color to your life, but not looking for a whole home improvement project, grab an adult coloring book (or kids’, not judging). Sip and paint nights are growing in popularity in every city. A quick Google search can help you find one near you!

 

A Stroll Down Memory Lane

Pull out some old photo albums, your Snapchat memories, or head to Facebook to reminisce on the good ol’ days. Put together a scrapbook, using flowers, stickers and other fun additives. Get creative. Pinterest is a great place to go for inspiration when it comes to crafting.

 

Shut It Off

It’s important to remember work-life balance. Once you leave the office, you aren’t being paid for your time. Don’t bring work home with you. At the end of the day, it’s just a job, and you cannot let it consume your life. Disconnect and live it. Log out of accounts, turn off push notifications and live in the moment with family and friends. If you still find yourself checking emails, it’s time to play a fun little game. Every time you do anything work-related outside of the office, add a dollar to a piggy bank. At the end of the year, donate your bank to charity.

One with Nature

Do you live close to the shore? Head outside to take in nature at its finest and enjoy an early morning sunrise or evening sunset. The sound of the crashing waves coupled with the wind blowing and the calmness of the vast open space at the lake, pier, river or ocean can be what you need after a rough day. If you don’t live near the water, head out to a balcony or up to a rooftop to take in the views. Fresh air and time to yourself or shared with a loved one can get you back on track.

Do You Even Lift?

Let off some steam and get physical. Find a cycling, hot yoga or kickboxing class, or just go for a good run around the corner. You’ll sweat out the frustration and your body will thank you. 

Remember, turn it off, disconnect and live in the moment. Limit work to your 40 hours per week, and spend the rest doing what matters to you most.

Until next time…

-Jae Marie