How do you destress after a long day?


Quick Answer

Self-care after a long day involves engaging in pleasurable, relaxation activities. These include enjoying favorite hobbies, taking a hot bath, exercising, meditating, listening to soothing music, reading or participating in any other practice that encourages stress relief, notes Dr. Alice Boyes from Psychology Today.

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Full Answer

It is important for individuals to release stress and relax after a long day. Failure to do so can result in poor concentration, fatigue and irritability for no reason, notes the American Psychological Association. A person can relax his mind by learning to accept things that cannot be changed instead of ruminating on past events. Relaxation exercises, such as yoga and meditation, allow a person to stretch overworked muscles and use deep-breathing techniques to calm the mind and body.

Taking a peaceful walk on a nice, breezy day alongside a river or in a park also encourages relaxation. Exercise, in general, allows a person to release endorphins in the brain, which act as "feel good" chemicals and help alleviate stress, notes the American Psychological Association. Spending leisurely time with friends and family can act as a form of stress release. Journaling, or writing down one's thoughts, can help an individual process any negative thoughts or stressful moments that occurred that day. Alcohol consumption should be kept at a minimum, and drugs and nicotine should be avoided as these negatively affect the stress response.

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