Do you have trouble getting your mind off work, even after work? Many people feel this way. However, as common as it is, you need to know how to relax your mind to avoid overload.
If you don’t take care of yourself, this state can cause your mind to “defect” while you’re still at work, with signs such as reduced focus and creativity. Likewise, your social relationships and physical and mental health suffer consequences. In more severe cases, there is a risk of developing burnout syndrome.
Given this context, it’s best to learn some tips on how to relax your mind, right? That’s why we’ve listed six for you. Check them out!
1. Stay away from social media
You want to rest after work, but then you end up seeing some comment on social media about the need for hard work and more effort. So you start to feel guilty and unable to relax enough. Can you relate? More common than we think.
It is no wonder that social networks are triggers for anxiety and depression. Thus, along with the guilt for resting, there may be feelings related to tiredness or even not feeling as much pleasure in the job.
However, you should know that resting after work is essential not only because you deserve it, but because you need it. And it’s okay if you see more meaning in spending time with your loved ones than at work. Understanding and accepting that people have different priorities can help you avoid triggers with comparisons on social media.
2. Take a break from “black screens”
In addition to social media, it is important to take some time away from so-called “black screens”, such as cell phones and television. After all, how many times a day do you not worry about checking the notifications on your smartphone and seeing if they have anything to do with work ?
This way, you hardly ever get away from it as much as you should while having meals with your family, watching movies , exercising, etc. With one eye on the fish and the other on the cat, there is no way to relax your mind and fully enjoy these moments, no matter how multifunctional you are.
In specific situations, it is natural to need to keep an eye on notifications. However, avoid making them a rule. Unless you have a job that deals with frequent emergencies, such as medical professionals. Finally, remember that excessive screen time can cause addiction and can damage your vision .
3. Read books
After reading the previous tip, you may have wondered what to do with the time that would be taken up by soap operas, reality shows, movies, series and other productions that the screens offer.
Especially after the emergence of social networks, mobile games and other technological resources, books have been somewhat neglected . It’s a shame, because in addition to being a relaxing activity, reading contributes to creativity, memorization and the expansion of cultural repertoire .
Now, while reading, you need to focus all your attention on that moment. Don’t stare at the television, use your cell phone, talk to other people or clean the house, okay? The more you focus, the more your mind will relax.
4. Listen to your favorite music
Listening to music for at least 78 minutes a day is good for your mental health . This is what a study by the British Academy of Sound Therapy shows . The benefits are mainly felt in the form of relaxation, optimism and happiness. Therefore, it is worth listening to your favorite music to relax your mind after work.
It may be difficult to disconnect from work issues at first. However, little by little, the effects of music will help you to switch off. If you prefer, do this while cleaning the house, riding a bike or walking . These other activities are also beneficial for distracting your mind.
5. Get a good night’s sleep
Many people want to get a good night’s sleep, but not everyone can achieve this goal. One of the reasons is worry about work , which causes anxiety or distress and makes it difficult to relax the mind.
Another explanation for poor sleep is working for long hours and having disorganized schedules . That is, imagine someone who has to work morning, afternoon and evening, for example. It is natural that there is little time to take a shower, eat and get ready for bed.
Furthermore, as we know, many people do extra work to supplement their income. However, if your intention here is to learn how to de-stress after work, it is recommended that you avoid this practice for a long time.
Otherwise, poor quality sleep tends to harm your physical and mental health . As a result, your performance at work can also be affected and you may even have to take time off from your activities if you don’t get around this problem.
6. Take a relaxing walk
Due to professional commitments, you may spend most of your time in an office, and for those who work from home , you may spend most of your time at home or in your apartment. As a result, you may not even know the neighborhood where you live very well. Can you relate?
So, take advantage of your free time to take a relaxing walk and discover new places, as the distractions of the street help to take your mind off your routine . To make it even better, go on foot or ride a bike, which will also serve as exercise and will be good for your physical health.
Another tip that isn’t a relaxing walk, but that can help you relax, is to watch meditation videos on YouTube to relax your mind. After all, meditation is a technique aimed at balancing emotions and controlling stress. It’s also worth knowing the effects of a hot bath on the body and mind , which helps you relax and improve circulation.