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29 May 2023

Weekly wellness tip: 5 Ways to Switch Off After Work


Published on 29 May 2023
Health and wellbeing Tools and tips

College Of Law    

Aim for a smooth transition between work and home. Use the time between work and home to transition from ‘work mode’ to ‘relax mode’. Try not to spend your commute worrying about work or making work-related phone calls.

Depending on the length of your commute, you could:

  • Listen to music
  • Listen to a podcast
  • Do some deep breathing exercises
  • Read or listen to a book
  • Visualise how you are going to relax when you get home

If you have a short commute, consider spending 5-10 minutes in your car or sitting outside before going into your home. Use this time to breathe, listen to something uplifting, or quietly reflect away from distractions.

Create an after-work routine

Make coming home something to look forward to. Create an after-work routine that is filled with things you love – be that a shower, walk in nature, your favourite snack or drink, or whatever else helps you ease into home life. If you share your house with others, consider asking them to give you some space when you first get home.

Take time to breathe

Deep belly breathing is one of the most effective ways to destress from any situation. It puts a hand-brake on your body’s fight or flight response and promotes feelings of calm. Try to set aside a few minutes to breathe deeply, either on your way home from work or during your afterwork routine. Breathing deeply before bed can also help you fall asleep.

Do something you love

Whether it’s watching a movie, calling a friend, reading, playing a video game, cooking or baking, listening to music – aim to do at least one thing you love after every work day. This will give you something to look forward to each day and hopefully distract you from the stresses of work.

Plan for laughter

Laughter is incredibly important. It rewires the brain for hope – and it feels good. Try to plan for laughter. Watch a comedian on YouTube, call a funny friend, visualise some memories that made you laugh. A good laugh triggers the release of endorphins, one of the body’s feel-good chemicals. Laughter will help you relax, recharge, and feel better.

**Adapted from Groov