Not every day goes without a hitch. Some days we all feel vastly overwhelmed. That’s why I challenged myself to turn these days around. When I get home after a stressful day, I try to implement these five strategies to help myself unwind.

Only Finish the Tasks You MUST Complete

After an exhausting day, the last things I want to do are chores. The trick to unwinding when I feel stressed is to give myself grace.

I try to understand that I am only one person with an endless list of tasks that need completing. Once I let go of the idea that I will ever “catch up”, I simply do my best to tackle the ones that are time sensitive or will improve my mindset.

If I feel mentally drained or overwhelmed, I allow myself to take a break. I’ve found this is the best way to keep myself going on even the toughest of days.

Incorporate Stress-Relieving Foods

Sugary, caffeinated drinks paired with processed or fried foods can spike anxiety and stress. Although french fries and ice cream are some of my favorite foods, they aren’t the best choice after a tough day. Better to have some veggies and whole grain chips dipped in guacamole.

Instead, I try to include stress-relieving foods in my meals. I’m sure it sounds absurd that food could have such an impact on someone’s mental state, but it works wonders when I can’t think straight.

Foods like sweet potatoes, eggs, avocados, salmon, and broccoli are nutritious items to include. When I’m looking for a snack, I try to avoid grabbing a sweet baked good. Instead, I opt for a smoothie that’s rich in vitamin C or nuts and seeds, which are abundant in healthy fats. Foods that contain vitamins A or C, fiber, or omega-3 fats will reduce stress and improve sleep.

Try a Massage

When the tension in the muscles around the neck and shoulders is at an all-time high, I don’t let the weight of stress pull me down. Instead of laying in bed all night hoping I fall asleep, I’m a big fan of massage. I love this handy percussive massage gun. Or you can try a warm bath (especially if you have jets) a soak in a hot tub, or a massage chair to combat insomnia. Even a facial massage with some vitamin C oil and a gua sha will do the trick.

The soothing rollers expel any stress lingering in my neck and shoulders. After a 15-minute massage, I drink a full glass of water and rest for another hour, partaking in something I enjoy. Sometimes it’s watching TV, reading a book, or cuddling with the dog. Now, I’m ready to fall asleep the moment my head touches the pillow.

Get Moving

As much as I hate to admit it, doing some kind of physical activity daily is my key to reducing stress and getting a good night’s sleep. Some days it’s a tough workout, but even if it’s just a short walk with the dog, movement is a critical component of my daily self care.

Physical activity is linked to every aspect of your health. Not only will it allow you to feel more energetic, remain supple as you age, and boost heart and lung health, it will also mean you’re less likely to suffer an injury or need a hearing test. Getting regular exercise will keep you feeling as good as you, for as long as you can.

Practice Meditation

In addition to massages, meditation is another wonderful strategy to help me unwind after a stressful day. Deep breaths paired with repeated mantras allow me to manifest positive thoughts and transform my mood. Sometimes I pick a random page in The Little Book of Big Knowing and see where it leads me.

I try to meditate in a quiet space for at least 10 minutes. Afterward, I feel refreshed and more at peace with the stress I felt throughout the day.

Life isn’t always easy. But when I take the time to care for myself, the days become easier.

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