10 Best Ways to Unwind

These days, there’s too much emphasis on productivity, hyper-efficiency, or squeezing the most productivity out of every last minute. People are...

These days, there’s too much emphasis on productivity, hyper-efficiency, or squeezing the most productivity out of every last minute. People are working longer hours, constantly checking their email, or relentlessly focusing on getting more done. You may carry the stress from your day straight to the bed. People have forgotten how to unwind, how to be lazy, how to enjoy life! Here are the best ways to help you relax, refresh and recharge. And, if you think you don’t have the time to unwind, don’t worry! Ease yourself by choosing a time toward the end of the day—it can be ten minutes, a half hour, or one hour, where you’ll explore one or all of the following approaches helping you de-stress and relax.

1. Meditate

It is one of the best tools for relaxing, unwinding, clearing the mental clutter, and releasing good vibes into your system. Sit in a comfortable place and let all thoughts flow away from you. Put on your headphones, turn on your favorite music and relax. Your brain and body will relax with each passing minute, and gradually your mind will fall in line as well. You can get a benefit from just closing your eyes for 10 minutes if you make use of that time correctly.

2. Do Something You Love

One of the best ways to get rid of stress is by embracing something that you actually love. Simply being able to do something that brings you joy will allows you respite from the hectic nature of your job. Painting, baking, knitting, listening to music, playing with kids or cuddling pets can provide you with an opportunity to unwind! Whatever you choose to do, get lost in the moment and just enjoy yourself!

Woman playing with her poodle on a brown couch.

3. Stretch it Out

Stretching helps relax your muscles and brings balance to your body. Get some feeling back into those muscles, especially if you tend to sit for most of the day. Stretching can ultimately increase your blood flow and posture, things that your body will appreciate. Taking time out of your day to stretch out those strains is extremely relaxing. Dedicate 10-15 minutes to serious stretches and you’ll feel so much better and your body will be less prone to muscle injuries.

Woman in blue workout gear stretching in her living room.

4. Pamper Yourself

Whether it’s a massage, a facial, foot soak, or nail care, both men and women alike can greatly benefit from being pampered in some way. Redefine your personality with natural and herbal body products and nail care products. From artificial nails to nail care treatments or gel nail polish to organic and natural nail products, you can find each and every product for your needs. So go ahead, stop waiting for that “one day” and book yourself a relaxing treatment. Your body and mind will both thank you.

5. Use Visualization Techniques

The brain can’t distinguish between reality and imagination, so visualization can be a powerful tool to help you unwind in a snap. Sit comfortably and clear your mind of distracting thoughts and sensations. Visualize a real or imaginary place that makes you feel happy and peaceful. Hold on to that image and savor the feeling of calm and relaxation you feel in the present moment. The great thing about visualizations is that you can do them anywhere – on the train, at your desk, or from the comfort of your own couch!

6. Walk in Nature

When was the last time you stepped outside without purpose? Not to go to the work, or walk the dog, but simply to breath the fresh air? If you can't remember, now's your chance. Being outside boosts your mental health! Engaging your senses is a powerful way to relax. It gives your brain a break from being overstimulated. Go outside and find a quiet, natural location to sit. Fill your lungs with fresh air, and your eyes with the splendid surroundings. You should feel a sense of serenity, and gratitude. It's a time for you to connect with the world around you and escape the craziness for a while.

7. Cleaning Alleviates Stress?

After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is come home and clean house. Many people associate cleaning more with drudgery than relaxation, but cleaning can be a great stress reliever! If you incorporate mindfulness into your cleaning, it can actually be a form of meditation, leaving you more relaxed after you finish. Lend a distinctive look to your abode with stylish and lively wall hangings, such as paintings or wall clocks. Use artificial flowers, candles, vases, or figurines to create a comfortable, lived-in look.

8. Take a 20-Minute Power Nap

Sleep is a key point to unwind. It’s a natural miracle cure for all kinds of things, including stress. Know that resting gives your body some time to organize everything. Things will seem much clearer when you wake up. Set a timer and take a 20-minute short nap. But anything over 30 minutes takes you into a deep sleep and makes you exhausted. A power nap gives your brain a chance to shut down for a few minutes. It’s incredible how energizing and mind-relaxing a 20-minute power nap can be!

9. Aroma Therapy with Essential Oils

Smells can trigger memories, emotions, and even affect our nervous systems. When we catch a scent, the olfactory nerve sends signals to your brain, including the limbic system and the amygdala, which regulate mood, emotion and memory. Lavender, jasmine, lemon, bergamot and grapefruit are scents that promote relaxation, sleep, and well-being. So, next time you need to relax, grab some essential oils or a scented candle and take a deep breath.

10. Talk to Relieve Your Stress

Talking is definitely one of the best remedies to de-stress and unwind. It’s not even necessary to talk about what you did, what’s stressing you out, or what you’re feeling anxious about. Just having face-to-face time with your spouse, friends or loved ones can help relieve your stress and anxiety of the day. Speak to someone you know you can always trust, and who is always there for you. Call up an old friend or invite someone out for ice cream or coffee.

Two women talking about life on the couch with cups of tea.

11. Read Some Books

Reading is one of the best ways to relax and can help you de-stress. Believe it or not, reading a good book can be way more relaxing than watching movies online. Reading a book distracts your mind from the realities that stress you. You have to be fully invested in the story to escape and once you’re there the rest of your body can enter a full state of relaxation. Go to a bookstore, buy a few books, and start reading them one by one, every night. Your mind will escape all the outside noise and the words will take you away.

12. Turn Off Notifications

Email, text notifications and calls are the way of modern life. But non-stop reminders of the people and tasks that need our attention can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. Take out some time to snooze reminders, stop endless phone scrolls, delete unused apps, and disable push notifications. Avoid turning to hours of television as an escape from a stressful day. Instead, relax at home or spend quality time with friends, family or loved to give your mind and body a quick reboot. You’ll feel lighter, less distracted, and more relaxed. The best way to relax is to understand what works for you. Some people unwind with a vigorous run while others get the same benefit by sitting on the couch and reading a book. Simple trial and error will help you find the best strategies for you. Just remember not to judge yourself for whatever you choose. “Own it, use it, and unwind.” So, how do you unwind yourself after a stressful day? Let us know in the comments!