We all have those days where stress at work leaves us feeling overwhelmed and both mentally and physically exhausted. Fortunately, I have for you today 6 tried and true ways to help you de-stress from your day.
6 Ways to De-Stress from Your Work Day
If you’re wondering where I’ve been lately, let me just start off by saying that these past several weeks have been non-stop go, go, go at work, which unfortunately has led to a lot of stressful days and nights. On top of that, Saturday night consisted of a scary run to the E.R. with our youngest, who had to have stitches on his ear. Add in the fact that he just turned 5 years old which means he’ll be starting school this fall, and officially means my babies aren’t babies anymore. 🙁
Needless to say, my stress levels have been a bit above average lately and I’ve really had to put in a concerted effort to figure out ways to relax. While it’s completely natural to have a small amount of stress in our lives, high stress levels can be detrimental to our health and can negatively impact all areas of our life. When I feel myself getting overwhelmed from everything, these 6 activities help me to relax to better face the challenges ahead, and are great de-stressors. So if you also struggle with keeping your stress levels low, read ahead and find out ways to reduce your worries and ease the tension!
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Workout
Whether it’s kickboxing, pilates, yoga, running, or even just walking your dog around the neighborhood, physical activity has been proven to help improve your overall health and well-being and can help you successfully manage your stress. Working out is beneficial in releasing any bottled up aggression you may have and can help you mentally clear your head. When I feel frustrated from my day, I personally love doing a good kickboxing workout like this one, but ultimately I encourage you to do what makes you feel the best. Afterwards, not only will you feel better, but you will also have a clearer picture of how to tackle whatever issues that may be facing you.
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Listen to Music
Did you know that listening to music can help keep depression and anxiety at bay? Listening to music can also lower your blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, and ultimately help ease tension. The words in songs can also help us cope with issues in our life and understand how to appropriately handle situations. Music is good for both the body and mind, and listening to your favorite artists/songs is a sure-fired way to help you relax and toss your blues away. I personally start my day off by walking 1,000 steps around the perimeter of my building, while listening to some feel good music. Not only am I getting in healthy physical activity, but it also puts me in a good mood which in turn helps me better focus on the tasks ahead of me.
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Take a Relaxing Bath
At the end of your day, instead of just quickly hopping in and out of the shower, light some candles, grab some bath salts and bubbles, and run yourself a nice, warm bath. Taking an extra 15-20 minutes to really slow down and relax in a warm bath can help ease your tension and stress. Another good tip is to use an aromatherapy bubble bath to help you relax for sleeping. My favorites are the Dr. Teal’s Sooth and Sleep with Lavender and Dr. Teal’s Relax and Relief with Spearmint.
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Watch TV/ Read a Book
Have a favorite show that always puts you in a good mood? Or how about a book that you literally get lost in when reading? Finding simple distractions such as watching television or reading a book can help take your mind off of whatever stressful events have occurred during the day, and can help put you in a better frame of mind. I always enjoy watching a light-hearted comedy such as Friends or reading a good novel that provides me an escape from reality. (Leave me some book recommendations in the comments!)
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Disconnect from Technology
Don’t get me wrong, I think we all love technology, but sometimes social media, cell phones, and the internet are the furthest things from helping us successfully de-stress. While some individuals may find it helpful to talk to someone after a stressful day, others might benefit from a short break from the outside world. Turning off your cell phone and avoiding social media until you feel better, might just be the cure that you were looking for.
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Indulge in Chocolate
When all else fails, indulging in a small treat can help comfort us from a rough day. Eating a small amount of dark chocolate has even been proven to lower our stress hormone levels and can stimulate an increase in endorphins, which makes us happier. I’m not saying eat a whole Hershey’s bar or anything, but a little piece of dark chocolate can go a long way in making you feel better. And seriously, who doesn’t love chocolate from time to time?
So there you have it- 6 ways to de-stress from your work day and activities that will help put you in a better mood. I hope these tips are helpful in decreasing your stress levels and helping you after a chaotic day, week, or month! What other tips do you have for de-stressing? Let me know in the comments!
Thanks for stopping by!- Cara
I love the colours of this picture. I love listening to music on my office!
Deal, https://dealmanreviews.wordpress.com
Thanks, it was taken at the Outerbanks last year. And who could live without music?!
1 & 5 are my top ones and I couldn’t nod along more while reading this post. I think this is so relatable, especially nowadays when we are not just strained from stress at work but also emotionally drained because of social media. Loved all of your tips. Also, a relaxing bath & a bar of chocolate defo do help as well 😉
xox Nadia
http://www.mielandmint.com
That’s so true, Nadia. I think society in general makes it more difficult nowadays to be “relaxed”. If we could all just learn how to unplug more, I think we’d be better off. 🙂
You hit them all!
Not a bath taker but painting my nails or doing a face mask are good ways for me to beautify AND de-stress.
Yes to both of those!
Yes to working out, listening to music and getting lost in a good book/movie/show! When I slack off on my workouts, I can feel myself fall into this lazy funk which makes me even more stressed out. Chocolate never fails to make me break out though, so I’d substitute that for a glass of wine. Lol.
There’s something about working out that really does put you in a better mood, I think!
Yes, yes, yes to chocolate and working out. Cause when you work out you can have an extra piece of chocolate right?
Something like that! haha 🙂
Music, bath, book, chocolates. Transport you to paradise. 🙂
Wouldn’t that be lovely?!
As I went down the list, I found myself nodding and saying, “Yep,” after every single one! I feel like I need to print this out and hang it in my office as a reminder, haha 🙂
Me and you both! I definitely need to do these more often to avoid getting overwhelmed! 🙂
Such a great list! Working out is always my go-to when I’m stressed. I’m at the gym about 4 or 5 days a week and then take a yoga class once a week as well. It helps me so much!
Thank-you! Working out is so good for the body and the mind! 🙂
I’ve been in a period of big stress too; it really makes having anything left for blogging a challenge! I love all the items on your self-care list and I’ll have to make sure to tap into some of them soon 🙂
Sorry to hear things have been stressful for you lately too. Hoping things get better soon!
Chocolate is my favorite… especially accompanied by wine! Work outs are great for those truly challenging days. Get all that pent up aggression out.
https://binkiesandbaubles.com/2017/02/14/17-years-of-love/
That sounds amazing haha! I always enjoy getting in a good workout.
Especially since my job revolves around technology, disconnecting + unplugging is the GREATEST for me!
Coming Up Roses
Me too, Erica! It can be hard, though, since my main job and side job both revolve around technology, but we all need those breaks. 🙂
These are all so good! I love going for a quick walk around my neighborhood and decompressing after a stressful day…something about being outside always adjusts my attitude!
I agree! Fresh air always helps clear the mind!
Disconnecting from technology and taking time to read are two of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day! Thanks for sharing these ideas, Cara!
You’re welcome, Kiara. I really enjoy picking up a good book after a hard day.
Completely agree with them all, however not sure about the chocolate, lol.
My new goal is to exercise more, i love the feeling i get after i’ve done a workout or gone for a run (i hate running). Reading really helps me too.
Haha, a tiny piece is good for you every once in awhile! 😉 And I’ve been loving getting in HIIT workouts lately, it’s very invigorating!
I love reading. Once I start reading a good book is almost impossible to put it down.
Also I find it very relieving to work out after a stressful day, it helps me get all that negative energy out – if you know what I mean.
Absolutely! That’s why I enjoy kick boxing and HIIT workouts, because you can really let it all out.
The bath is definitely the best way that I get better control over my day and let it all go… I especially love it with my fancy bathtub, lol. Now I just need to find the perfect bubble bath or bath oil!!
Yes, a fancy bathtub is next on our home buying list lol.
These are great tips! They are what I use to destress as well – well not working out anymore since I’m in physical rehab BUT I will start doing that again soon. I am living proof that too much stress is bad. I used to live a very high-stress life. I thrived on stress. Until I got strep and then it never went away and my autoimmune system freaked out – long story but it was bad. So now, I work very hard to stay stress-free – especially after work. I’m so glad to see I’m doing the right things! Now, I’m even more motivated to do them!
Thanks!
xoxo Lauren | Glitter & Grandeur
That’s great to hear these things are working for you, Lauren. Too much stress is no bueno!
A little chocolate and a glass of red wine is my favorite way to unwind after a long day!
Greta | http://www.gretahollar.com
That sounds so amazing right now!
Oh, I love listening to music and actually do it at work! This is a great list! You’ve provided some wonderful tips.
I love listening to music at work too. Makes the day go by faster, I think!
I’m sorry to hear it’s been stressful lately for you. I completely understand as work can do that to me often. My favorite thing to do is take a hot shower and relax on the couch with a book. Great recommendations. Hope your little guy is doing okay and you get some peace soon! Xo!
Thanks Emelia, I appreciate that!
I’m always listening to music and I typically take about ten minutes after everyone leaves to just sit and be still. As of lately, I have been taking a midday walk (because, Texas) and calling my suitor just to get some fresh air. Reading / writing in my journal is also a huge help.
Those are all great ideas, CJ! I like taking a midday walk too, as it clears my head.
Reading a book, binging tv and a glass of wine are my favorites 🙂
Yes to all of those- though I rarely get to read for pleasure anymore. Need to change that asap!
Chocolate and a warm bath sound perfect! I’ve started to just take a nice warm shower at the end of the day to detox my body from the day’s stress, really helps clear my mind and sleep better!
It really does help! I think I’ll indulge in one this evening! 😉
Great tips! Listening to music and taking a hot bath is always a fail safe way for me to destress 🙂 xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/fashion/dolling-up-valentines-day/
Those are my go-to’s!
I can so relate to all of these! Working out really helps put me in a good mood. I also love to watch some television. That is one of the only things that stops my brain from going. I have the hardest time turning my brain off and television helps with that. Great post!
I enjoy getting lost in a tv show or book too- it helps ease your mind from whatever is stressing you out. 🙂
All great ideas, but indulge in chocolate is hands down my favorite. I used to work as an elementary school teacher and chocolate saw me through some hard days. 🙂
Haha, it really does help on those terrible, no good, bad days. 😉
YES to all of this especially working out! I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve been super stressed about something work related or something personal, and after I go sweat it out I feel like a whole new person <3
Green Fashionista
It really does work wonders!
I love all of these ironically though, my top two are 1 and 6….
Haha, balance my friend- balance. 🙂
Good Post. Thanks for the advise . Love you Dad
Thanks Dad
Glad to hear your son is ok! I can imagine that being scary and stressful! I workout 3-5x a week and it def helps de-stress. Watching one of my favorite shows or a movie is also something that relaxes me. I miss reading but find it hard to juggle on top of blogging, yt videos, working out, and the rest of my life. Bringing a good book to the beach is something that I love to do in the summer. I wish I had a big spa tub to relax in! I never bathe in my bathtub because its really small but its def relaxing! Thanks for sharing these Cara!
Thanks Tanya, it was scary to witness but I’m glad he’s starting to feel better. I need to take a book to the beach with me this year, that’s a great idea. Also, a spa tub with jets is next on the purchasing list for our house lol.
These are such great tips, no matter what you’re stressing about! Music is basically magical…and so is chocolate, ha!
I can’t live without music- it always helps me no matter what is going on in my life.
I love these! I think it is so important to have a “nighttime” routine because if not it is so difficult for me to go to sleep because my mind just keeps racing 🙂 Thanks for sharing!!
That’s a great reminder, Reeni. It’s so easy to just lay in bed and let your mind keep working.
Oh my! I hope your son is okay!
These are some great stress relievers…especially indulging in chocolate. Haha!
xo, Lily
Beauty With Lily
Thanks, he is starting to feel better now thank goodness. And a little wine and chocolate are my go-to’s when I’m super duper stressed lol.
This is a great list! A little bit of chocolate, yoga, and a cup of tea goes a log way after a stressful day at work. Thanks so much for putting this list together 🙂 Cheers, Mary Jane
Thanks Mary Jane!
By the time I get done with work (7:30 a.m. – I’m a night shift labor and delivery nurse) I’m so exhausted it doesn’t take anything to help me unwind … just show me the bed and my pillow. To de-stress, I love listening to music on my way home!
Haha, that’s awesome Jen. My husband struggles with unwinding (he works nights too), so I’ll have to tell him that.
I hope your little one is doing better from those stitches! The ear is so senstive.
Good tips! Music really does help me de stress, it’s one thing I haven’t been doing lately but always helps me.
Thank-you! He is starting to feel better, thankfully. It was painful to witness, but he was so brave. & I love listening to music to calm me down and de-stress.
yes!! work stresses me out!! i love to get in a good workout right after work to clear my head!
I have found that unplugging at the end of the day is really the best thing. When you are on your phone or computer most of the day, it is important to just disconnect for a while to recharge.
I agree! I’m always plugged in at work, because it’s part of my job, but when I’m home in the evenings I really like to unplug.
I’m all about the chocolate 🙂
I really do need my workout as soon as I get home to work out my work frustrations.
I’m not myself if I miss workouts. It’s good for the body, mind, and soul, I think.
All of these are perfect! I personally love going for a run after a stressful day – it’s a great way to clear your head! And a nice bubble bath afterwards with a good book doesn’t hurt either…
Taylor | http://espressoandambition.com
Thanks Taylor. That sounds so relaxing!
Taking a bath is the ultimate relaxation method. It’s hard to still be stressed out after!
I agree! I always have a much easier time going to sleep afterwards too!
i love destressing with a workout…punching and kicking things (in muay thai) really does help 🙂
Agreed! I love kickboxing workouts to get all my vent up aggression out!
This is so great! And if you ask me, these are the 6 best ways for sure! Have a wonderful start to your week and may the stress be less!! Xo
Thanks Andrea. I’m hoping things calm down in my world and my little one is on the mend, thankfully.
These are spot-on! Unplugging after work is a must. Just taking a minute to not be doing a million things at once is so important!
I agree. We all need those breaks from cyber space for awhile haha.
Sounds like it really has been crazy! I hope your son is doing ok!
I also like to do quick medidation/relaxation videos if I’m really stressed. You can find SO many on Youtube, even 5 min ones.
– Claudia
Thanks! He’s starting to feel better, thankfully. That’s a great tip, I’ll have to check those out!
A relaxing bath is always my go-to!
Mine too! Everybody always looks at me like I’m crazy for preferring baths over showers, but they’re soo much more relaxing haha.
I am right there with you on the crazy busy train! I hope your little one recovers quickly! I can only imagine how intense that experience was. On my way home from work, I like to jam to the radio. It starts the de-stress from my day. When I get home, I usually go for a walk and check on my chickens. They always brighten my day! If I need additional support to de-stress, I like to do a facial mask and treat my skin. It usually brings me back to my normal self.
Thank-you, Erin. I appreciate that. It definitely was not a fun experience, but he was a brave trooper. Also, the way you end your day sounds very relaxing!
All of these really do work. I especially love working out or listening to music.
Yes! Or my personal fave which is the combination of the two! 😉