How to Find Peace After a Stressful Day

After a long demanding day, unwinding is a necessity.  Life moves fast, and our minds race faster.  Before we know it, the weight of the day rests heavily on our shoulders. That’s when I notice that it’s time to slow down and give myself some space.  Space to breath, space to relinquish all the stress of the day, and a space to be solitary. 

For me, unwinding starts with intention. I don’t just zone out.  I lean into what brings me comfort and serenity. Sometimes that means getting lost in a book.  Reading transport my mind far from the chaos of the day. 

For me, unwinding starts with intention. I don’t just zone out.  I lean into what brings me comfort and serenity. Sometimes that means getting lost in a good book, and letting the words transcend you into escapism.  It helps to get as far away from the chaos of the day as possible.

Other times, I’ll turn to writing, which is perhaps the most cathartic outlet of them all.  There’s nothing like unleashing your thoughts onto a page.  It’s like decluttering your brain one sentence at a time.  

My friend introduced me to thoughtless writing where you just jot down anything and everything that comes to mind.  It doesn’t need to be eloquently written or even make sense for that matter.  It’s a great way to let out all the stress on your mind.  It can also be funny to go back re-read what you wrote.  You might find a lot of useful ideas.

And of course, TV has its place in my wind down routine.  Whether it’s a lighthearted comedy, or a gripping drama, it’s a chance to step into another world, even if just for a little while.  Watching something and lying down in bed is comforting, soothing, and can be rather stimulating depending on what you choose to watch.  

What I try and aim for is balance.  I try engaging my mind enough to keep the boredom at bay, but not so much to the point where I feel overwhelmed. I want peace, not pressure. 

Unwinding isn’t always about escaping.  It’s about being able to reconnect with yourself and be more in tune to what your body and mind need after a long stressful day. It’s about what makes you feel grounded, while everything feels like it’s spinning. 

So, how do you unwind after a demanding day?

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”

anne lamott