How To Unwind An Active Mind

The world feels a bit like a blizzard these days. Pandemics, work, family, and endless worry can derail good intentions and hijack self-care.

There is no quick fix and this post isn’t meant to imply there is one. 

You deserve to pause and put yourself back in place.  These simple evening routines offer a reprieve from stress, even for those who don’t often slow down. Turn the television off and put social media away. Step out of the every day. This is your time.

How To Unwind With An Active Mind

Affiliate Disclaimer ☀️ Please know that this post contains affiliate links. That means that I could make a small commission on something you purchase at the corresponding site. The products will not cost you any additional fees, and I’ll never link to anything I don’t truly admire, own, want to own or appreciate.

Book Bound

Nothing takes me further from chaos than travel into the far off land of literature.  Get lost in historical fiction, find balance in self-help.  Reading is a healthy habit that fuels both your mind and imagination.  A hardcover sends me off to sleep but when I want to be entertained on the move, I do chores, walk my dog or sit in the dark to listen on.

Slip One On

Throughout life, we wear many different hats—that goes for shoes as well. Making the shift from the bustle of day to the tranquility of night begins with kicking off shoes and slipping into something more comfortable. 

An Evening Chat

Sometimes sitting and chatting is the perfect release—not about bills or schedules but for giggles or sharing dreams.  This gets harder to squeeze in as kids get older and schedules get filled, but the time is there.  Laugh about the good old days, hypothetically plan an anniversary getaway, share that crazy dream you had.  Talk with your spouse or call an old roommate…connect just because.

Shine Bright

Lighting a candle makes a statement. It claims intention with a will to slow down.  Whether a candle or a cozy, crackling fire, it’s a visual and aromatic reminder that the day is coming to an end.

Pamper

You don’t have to book a day at the spa to treat yourself! Self-care is an anthem we can sing from the comforts our home—in your favorite fuzz bathrobe, slathered in coconut lotion, letting the day melt away.

Find Your Jam

I’m a sucker for a cozy pajama set. It helps me believe I’m put together even when I’m not—they feel like a treat. It’s one of my favorite gifts to give and get.

Meditate

I don’t care how you do it.  Indulge in the sexy voice of Andy from Headspace. Discover the power of transcendental meditation.  Find a quiet place to just be.  Give yourself the time to stop—if even for a few minutes.

Diffuse The Situation

Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. It enhances both physical and emotional health. Use an oil diffuser to create a tranquil space, helping your mood and your mind.

Write

Writing is the cheapest and most impactful form of therapy. (IMHO!) Do it every day. Start a blog, get a gratitude journal —write a romance novel in secret.  I promise you will feel amazing!

Cook

For some, (like me!) cooking can be a cathartic way to unwind. It’s creative, involves movement and nourishes your body, mind, and family!  Whether you freestyle your way through dinner or like step-by-step directions to lead you to your meal, spending time in the kitchen creates the perfect opportunity to step down from the grind and feed your need to create.

Create (more)

I’m not a sit-down-and-veg kind of girl.  If my mind isn’t moving, my body is.  Being creative helps keep me centered, especially on days that didn’t go my way. Knitting, painting, DIY projects—being creative offers an opportunity for control, concentration, calm.

What sets you free at the end of each day? How do you refresh?

Everyone deserves a pause, a time to reset— even those constantly on the go.  Create a simple evening routine that offers a reprieve from each day. You deserve it; this is your time.