It’s so easy for life to feel as if it’s moving a million miles a minute. I know with work, creating content for social media, and just trying to balance everything in my personal life, it can get stressful! Most of us are dealing with crazy busy schedules and so many different things going on at once, prioritizing time for yourself ends up getting pushed to the bottom of the list. This year I’ve really been trying to take time for myself, de-stress, and find ways to unwind that I enjoy. Prioritizing mental health and setting special time for some R & R is sooo important! If you don’t know where to start, I put together my top 5 ways to de-stress and unwind to give you some inspiration on how to take that time for yourself. Of course, everyone is different, but these activities have really helped me find rest and have fun! Read on for my go-to de-stressing activities.
#1: Work Out
I know I know, you’ve heard this one a million times, but it’s true: exercise is a staple. Yes, I go through ups and downs like anyone but honestly, I’ve never had a workout I regret! Every time I exercise I gain a clearer mind, it boosts my self-esteem and makes me feel more confident. The best part is you really can do any workout depending on how you’re feeling. If you want something more mellow, try a beginner yoga class. If you’re looking to let off some steam, I love a 30-minute HIIT class. With platforms like Youtube and IG, you can find free workouts anywhere! Try it out and feel all of those amazing endorphins.
#2: Cook
This is a new one for me in 2022 but I have really gotten into it this year! I’ve found so many easy and DELISH recipes so I’m genuinely excited to cook. Part of the fun of cooking is looking up different recipes and deciding what I’m going to make, and then enjoying the completed meal. I’ll pour myself a glass of wine, put on some good music, and cook away. It’s so much fun (as long as Cory does the dishes lol!). If cooking isn’t your thing, maybe try baking or mixology!
#3: Schedule a date night for yourself
For me, I love getting my pampering on. Scheduling a blowout at Dry Bar is always one of my go-tos since it leaves me feeling so confident and my hair is good to go for days. I’m also a big skincare girl, I’m talking masks, serums, oils, and all the things! Some nights I’ll turn on my favorite show and do a whole at-home spa situation, maybe give myself a mini facial, do a face mask, or self-tan.
Here are all of my skincare faves:
#4: Call up a friend
Sometimes the best way to de-stress is by calling up your best girlfriends. I know there are times when I just want to chat to my girls, laugh, and talk about what’s going on in our lives plus a bunch of other random things that make me happy. Spending time with people who love you and fill your cup is the best medicine, and that holds true even in a phone call! My only recommendation is to avoid work talk if possible unless you need to vent. I think making an effort to keep some work-life balance is important and take work off of the mind when you’re at home relaxing.
#5: Read
Is it just me, or does everyone read now?! I’ve always loved to read (when I have the time) but lately, I feel like everyone is on their reading game and I am so here for it. Reading is such a great way to destress and unwind since you can get cozy and get lost in a book. There are so many different books out there that you can find something for whatever you’re most interested in. Lately, I’ve been coming home from work, pouring a glass of wine, getting in my comfiest clothes, and reading instead of turning on the TV or doing chores around the house. It’s been such a nice little break from looking at screens, and the best part is that you can read wherever you want. Go outside, go to a coffee shop, get cozy in your bed, you can go anywhere!
Here are some of my favorite books right now:
These 5 things have really helped me destress and unwind, but everyone is different! What works for me might not work for you, so the most important thing is to find your favorite ways to relax and take the time to do them. Like I said before, it’s so easy to not make time for yourself a priority, so I challenge you to do this at least once a week! I promise it will make all of the difference.
Let me know your favorite ways to destress and unwind in the comments below!
Xo, Ali
