Twelve Ways to Unwind

I don't know about you, but I look forward to coming home after a long day to just relax and unwind.  There are a lot of times where the stress of work gets in the way of my relaxation.  It can take a while for me to fall asleep at night, so I've been doing some research on how to unplug after a long day.  They may seem pretty straightforward, sometimes we need a reminder!

Here are some suggestions to help yourself relax.

1. Go for a walk:  I know that getting some fresh air can wake me up after my drive home, and forces me to think about my day.  Call a friend and make it a social time!  Dawn and I have gone for walks together and have been able to discuss our days, which makes going home to relax easier!

2. Try some yoga: Sometimes just relaxing and meditating helps to clear our heads and get things straight.  I think this is helpful when I have something on my mind that I want to sort out.

3. Read a book in a cozy chair: This works only if I'm not tired! Sometimes I end up waking up, realizing I didn't even read a page!

4. Pour yourself a glass of wine: I say just a glass, because you're looking to unwind, not get drunk! Alcohol can make you sleepy, which will make you completely unproductive.  Just have a glass of wine to relax. You don't need a hangover tomorrow!

5. Eat dinner outside: This spring weather has me itching to start eating meals out on my balcony!  I'll be sure to take some pictures when I do.  Don't you love eating al fresco?

6. Have a cup of tea: Recently, I've been drinking a lot of green tea to detox.  I love the calming effect it has on me!

7. Take a long shower or bath: I have always loved long showers.  My dad used to ask me if I did laps while I was in the shower!  Hot showers help me turn my brain off!

8. Make yourself an appointment for a massage: Last week I had the best massage that I've ever had.  It made me realize that taking time for myself is completely necessary.  Massages may become part of my "take care of myself" regimen.

9. Cuddle with your kids and read a book together: I don't have children, but I do know how important it is for families to spend time together.  One of my students keeps sharing updates about a book she has been reading with her mom.  Those are times your kids won't ever forget, and it sounds relaxing!

10. Take up a craft/hobby: I love to draw, and I don't do it nearly enough.  It's so therapeutic to just express my feelings through drawings.  I also really want to learn how to knit! Perhaps I'll learn this summer!

11. Listen to some quiet, classical music: When I can't sleep, I have a sound machine app on my phone that I turn on.  It always relaxes me enough to put me to sleep!

12. Turn off your cell phone: This is so hard for me, but putting the phone away and taking some time for yourself will work wonders and help you unwind.  Just try it!


We're linking up with seven thirty three's link up party, Inspire me Wednesday, as well as A Savory Feast's Hump Day Happenings!  Please click over to both blogs for wonderful Wednesday ideas!