Ever since I moved my desk back into the tiny bungalow and sheltered in place, it feels like every day is a long day. Especially because I literally only have 640 square feet to explore and hang out in. It’s also been hard because Sean is an essential worker, so I spend a lot of time during the day alone. It gets to me. I consciously decided to create a ritual that helps me unwind at the end of a long day and unplug. In case you’re in a similar situation or just don’t know where to start when making your own ritual, here’s what has helped me:
My Ritual That Helps Me Unwind At the End Of a Long Day
Take a nap
Honestly, napping is my most favorite thing in the world. I take a nap every Friday around 2 pm. It’s my treat at the end of a long week. Everyone I work with knows that after 2 on a Friday they won’t hear from me until a few hours later! Yup, I am a marathon napper, too. I like to get a solid 2-3 hours in. Don’t judge!
CBD
I’ve shared my love of CBD oil and why it’s so beneficial before here on the blog. I know there is still a lot of research to be done, but my thinking is that even if it’s a placebo effect, I’m ok with that. Whatever it takes to help me unwind! Early in the afternoon, I add a few drops to my water and feel like it helps me feel more relaxed and less anxious.
Wine
I mean… is there anything that wine doesn’t fix? Jokingggggg. I know I shouldn’t rely on alcohol to help me relax, but there’s something to be said about relaxing into a warm bath with a really good glass of wine. Recently, I signed up for Winc so that I could branch out and try new ones… and not have to go to the store to get wine!
Take a hot shower or bath
I am totally a bath-taker. Probably because I’m a Pisces? I’ve just always been drawn to the relaxing properties of water. Ordinarily, I love float therapy, but those are all closed currently. So my bathtub at home is my next best option! I always add epsom salts and body oil to the warm water. Here are more tips on how to make your bath the most relaxing thing ever! Bonus points if you add fresh flowers to your water. That’s the secret to making your home feel like a spa.
Change into cozies
I definitely have day pajamas and night pajamas these days. When it’s time to signal my brain that I can tune out from working and unwind at the end of a long day, I change into some cozies. For me, that’s a clean pair of sweatpants, fresh socks, and maybe a new hoodie. I know, treat yourself. But even a simple change of wardrobe into something a little bit more luxurious does wonders for my psyche.
Put away the tech
And lastly, the best/easiest/fastest way for me to unwind at the end of a long day is to put away my phone. Even just for an hour! I spend so much time on my phone that it feels like the only time I can truly turn off is when my phone is gone. And since I can’t get away to the mountains right now, hiding my phone in the house is the next best thing. I will even squirrel my phone in my car to help limit myself! I know I’m addicted, but I try to fight the urges as much as possible when I can.
What other things help you unwind at the end of a long day? I would love to know! Leave a comment.
