20 Unusual Ways To Unwind After A Busy Day And Keep Up With Life

Written by Michelle Ong | June 26, 2024 | Growth, Wellness

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Feeling drained and need a boost? Try these unusual but effective tips to unwind, recharge, and stay balanced in your busy life!

“Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.”

Katie Reed

We’re all familiar with the usual ways to unwind after a long day: hitting the gym or practicing yoga, diving into hobbies like music, reading, or cooking, journaling to clear our minds, and spending quality time with loved ones. But let’s shake things up! In this post, I won’t bore you with the same old tips. Instead, I’ll introduce you to some offbeat but effective self-care ideas that can help you relax and have fun. Whether it’s trying out new activities, mixing up your routine, or discovering unique ways to destress, these unconventional methods can add a refreshing twist to your relaxation time. Give them a try and see what works best for you!

#1. Aerial Yoga

“Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create.”

Jana Kingsford

First up is aerial yoga, which is a super fun and unique way to practice yoga using a hammock or fabric sling. This setup supports different poses while you’re suspended in the air, helping to stretch and strengthen muscles while also offering deep relaxation and stress relief.

The hammock lets you try yoga poses in a new way, decompressing the spine, improving flexibility, and boosting balance and coordination. The feeling of weightlessness can really help release body tension.

Aerial yoga blends traditional yoga poses with elements of aerial acrobatics, creating a playful and calming environment. It promotes mindfulness, rejuvenates the body, and fosters deep relaxation and calm.

Many yoga studios and larger fitness centers offer aerial yoga classes regularly. You can easily find these classes through social media, ClassPass, fitness apps, or a quick online search.

#2. Get Creative

Engaging in creative activities is a fantastic way to unwind after a busy day. Whether you’re painting, crafting, or diving into adult coloring books, these activities offer a therapeutic outlet for your creativity and self-expression.

Integrate these activities into your lifestyle by setting aside time each week for a creative session. For example, dedicate Friday evenings to painting or sketching. Try splatter painting on the weekends, create mandalas during your lunch breaks, or gather natural materials during a walk and use them for crafting in the evening.

These creative pursuits help quiet your mind and reduce stress by shifting attention away from daily concerns. They also bring a sense of achievement and satisfaction, providing a valuable break from everyday pressures and promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and a renewed sense of well-being.

#3. DIY Aromatherapy Playdough

DIY aromatherapy playdough is a wonderful hands-on activity that engages your senses and provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle. As you mold the soft, squishy dough, calming scents of lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus fill the air, helping to relax your mind and body. It’s like a mini spa session at your kitchen table!

Making and playing with the dough is not only meditative but also super fun. It offers a break from screens and daily worries, sparking your creativity and keeping you present in the moment. Plus, it’s a perfect excuse to get a little messy and enjoy some good, old-fashioned playtime.

So, why not give it a try? This simple craft helps ease anxiety and fosters a sense of calm and well-being especially after a busy week!

#4. Cloud Watching

Next up, let’s talk about a super simple, totally passive activity: cloud watching! After a tough day at work, just lie back, gaze at the sky, and let your mind unwind. Watching the shapes and patterns that clouds make is like a free, natural meditation session. The slow movement of the clouds is incredibly soothing and brings a sense of calm and peace.

It’s an easy way to hit pause on your busy day, connect with nature, and soak in some tranquility. Plus, it’s fun to spot different shapes—maybe you’ll see a dragon, a fluffy bunny, or even a pirate ship! This mindful practice helps you reset and recharge, leaving you refreshed and ready for whatever comes next. So grab a blanket, find a comfy spot, and let the sky show work its magic!

#5. Chromotherapy

Let’s dive into the colorful world of color therapy, or chromotherapy—a fun and relaxing way to unwind after a busy day. This technique uses different colors to influence your mood and energy levels. Imagine this: blue tones to promote calmness and relaxation, or vibrant yellows to boost your energy and lift your spirits.

Incorporating color therapy into your daily routine is a breeze. You can start by adjusting your lighting, decorating with colorful objects, or even wearing clothes in soothing hues. Picture this: dimming the lights or using colored bulbs to create a calming atmosphere.

By strategically using colors, you can balance your emotions and enhance relaxation. So, why not splash some color into your life and rejuvenate after a hectic day? It’s like a mood makeover, one shade at a time!

#6. Drumming Circles

Imagine this: beating away stress and having a blast while doing it—welcome to the world of drumming circles! It’s not just about hitting drums and percussion instruments; it’s a lively, community-driven way to unwind and find your rhythm.

In these circles, folks gather to create spontaneous music that’s both rhythmic and therapeutic. Picture yourself immersed in the sounds, feeling the stress melt away with each beat. Drumming isn’t just fun; it’s a proven stress-buster that lifts your mood and fosters a sense of togetherness.

The repetitive beats can transport you into a meditative zone, bringing clarity to your mind and relaxation to your body. Whether you join a local circle at a community center or start one in your backyard with friends, drumming once a month can work wonders for your well-being amidst life’s hustle and bustle. So, grab a drum, feel the rhythm, and let the stress fade away!

Check out the Pinterest pins below for more self-care ideas.

#7. Digital Detox

Picture this: a mini getaway from the digital buzz, a vacation for your mind! Taking a break from screens—aka a digital detox—is like hitting refresh for your mental well-being. It’s about unplugging from the digital noise to reconnect with the real world.

To start your digital detox journey, carve out specific times each day or week to go screen-free. Whether it’s an hour before bedtime, a tech-free weekend day, or a quick break during lunch, dedicate this time to offline pleasures. Dive into a good book, take a leisurely stroll, flow through some yoga poses, or simply hang out with loved ones.

By reducing screen time, you dial down those constant pings and distractions, giving your brain a breather and sharpening your focus. It’s not just about taking a break; it’s about being fully present in the moment, soaking up life’s little joys without the digital din.

Incorporating these regular breaks into your routine can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. You’ll find yourself happier, more mindful, and surprisingly more productive when you’re back in the digital realm. So, go ahead, hit pause on the screens, and tune into the richness of life around you!

#8. Ice Cream Meditation

Imagine this: a sweet escape from stress with a spoonful of delight! Ice cream meditation turns your favorite treat into a mindful adventure. Picture yourself with a cozy bowl of your go-to ice cream, settling into a comfy spot.

Take that first bite—slowly. Feel the creamy texture melting on your tongue, taste the flavors dancing on your taste buds, and enjoy the cool sensation spreading through your mouth. It’s not just ice cream; it’s a journey of sensations!

This playful twist on mindfulness isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about being fully present in the moment. By focusing on each sensory detail, from the smoothness to the flavors, you’re tuning out distractions and tuning into pure enjoyment.

Ice cream meditation isn’t just refreshing your palate; it’s refreshing your mind. It helps you unwind, letting go of daily pressures as you savor the simple pleasure of each bite. It’s like a mini vacation for your senses, boosting your mood and leaving you with a sense of calm and contentment.

So, next time you crave a break, grab your favorite scoop and dive into ice cream meditation. It’s a deliciously fun way to recharge and rediscover the joy in life’s little moments!

#9. Sound Bath

Sound bath meditation is like a peaceful spa day for your mind and spirit, minus the bubble bath and candles. Instead of soaking in essential oils, you’re immersed in soothing sounds from instruments like gongs, singing bowls, and chimes. These magical melodies create vibrations that resonate deep within, melting away stress and bringing tranquility.

Here’s how to dive into sound bath meditation: Find a cozy spot where you can unwind—no need for candles or bath bombs, just peace and quiet. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and let the calming sounds wash over you. Feel the vibrations gently easing tension from your body and quieting your busy thoughts.

The rhythmic tones aren’t just music; they’re therapy. They help dial down stress, ease anxiety, and boost your overall well-being. Many folks swear by sound baths for better sleep and clearer thinking, essential for tackling life’s challenges head-on. You can join sessions at wellness centers or plug into online recordings at home—whichever floats your boat.

By adding sound bath meditation to your routine, you’re carving out a serene sanctuary in the midst of life’s hustle and bustle. It’s your ticket to recharge, reset, and keep your cool, no spa appointment required!

#10. Occasional Indulgence

Treating yourself isn’t just indulgence—it’s self-care at its finest! Picture this: You’ve had a long day, and now it’s time to pamper yourself like the VIP you are. Grab a face mask and set up a cozy foot soak station. Maybe light a candle or two for that extra spa vibe.

Slather on your favorite face mask and sink your feet into a warm soak. Ah, instant relaxation! Now, cue up some soothing tunes—it could be calming classics or maybe even some new beats you’ve been meaning to check out. Music isn’t just background noise; it’s your soundtrack to serenity.

As you soak and mask, feel the tension melt away. The face mask nourishes your skin while the foot soak eases tired feet. And the music? It’s like therapy for your soul, dialing down stress and boosting tranquility.

The best part? You don’t need to splurge to have a spa-worthy session. Get creative with what you have at home—maybe add a few drops of essential oils to your foot soak or use ingredients from your kitchen for a DIY face mask. Mix it up with different music genres to keep things fresh and exciting. Jazz one day, ambient sounds the next—whatever floats your relaxation boat!

Together, these simple acts create a personal sanctuary right at home, where you can unwind, recharge, and face the world refreshed and ready. So go ahead, treat yourself—you’ve earned it!

#11. Halotherapy

Looking to unwind after a hectic day? Salt room therapy, also known as halotherapy, might just be your new go-to! Imagine stepping into a serene space filled with Himalayan salt crystals or walls covered in salt—it’s like walking into a tranquil salt cave. The atmosphere alone sets the stage for relaxation, creating a peaceful vibe that instantly melts away stress.

Here’s the scoop: Salt room therapy involves breathing in tiny salt particles that are believed to have therapeutic benefits. As you inhale the salty air, it can help cleanse your respiratory system and promote deeper, more relaxed breathing. This isn’t just about the air you breathe; it’s about the whole experience of being in a soothing environment that’s designed to calm both body and mind.

People often find that salt room therapy not only eases respiratory issues like allergies and asthma but also boosts overall well-being by enhancing relaxation and mental clarity. It’s like a breath of fresh air for your senses!

You can typically find salt room sessions at wellness centers, spas, and holistic health clinics. It’s a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and treat yourself to a rejuvenating retreat. So, if you’re looking for a unique way to unwind and recharge, salt room therapy might just be the salty sanctuary you’ve been searching for!

#12. Create A Vision Board

Creating a vision board is like crafting your dreams into reality—it’s not just about cutting and pasting pictures; it’s about envisioning the life you want and putting it into visual form. Whether you go digital with graphic software, get hands-on with scissors and glue, or unleash your inner artist on canvas, each method brings its own flair to the process.

Personally, I’ve dabbled in all these approaches, and let me tell you, it’s more than just a hobby—it’s a blast! There’s something deeply satisfying about piecing together images and words that resonate with your aspirations. It’s like giving your dreams a tangible shape and reminding yourself daily of what you’re working towards.

Once my vision board is done, I make sure to place it where I can see it every day—whether it’s on my bedroom wall or as a screensaver. Seeing those visuals keeps me inspired and focused, turning a simple creative project into a powerful motivator for personal growth and success.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and fulfilling way to unwind after a hectic day, give vision boarding a try. It’s not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about setting intentions and manifesting your future in a creative, engaging way. Who knew crafting your dreams could be this much fun?

#13. Forest Bathing

Ever tried forest bathing? It’s like a spa day in nature, where you let the woods work their magic on your mind and body. This Japanese practice, known as shinrin-yoku, is all about slowing down and soaking up the serene vibes of the forest.

Imagine this: you find a quiet woodland spot, away from the hustle and bustle. No plans, just you and the trees. As you wander leisurely, take deep breaths of that crisp forest air—it’s not just fresh, it’s packed with phytoncides, natural compounds that boost your immune system.

Now, tune in to nature’s symphony: the rustling leaves, the chirping birds, maybe even a babbling brook nearby. Let the dappled sunlight dance on your skin as you soak it all in. It’s not about rushing; it’s about being present and letting the forest rejuvenate your senses.

Forest bathing isn’t just a walk in the woods—it’s a stress-busting, mood-lifting, mind-clearing experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and renewed. So next time you need a break from the grind, why not take a dip in nature’s spa? Your mind and body will thank you for it!

#14. Kinetic Sand

Kinetic sand is like having a tiny zen garden right at your fingertips! It’s not your regular beach sand—it sticks together magically, making it perfect for sculpting and molding without any mess.

Imagine yourself at your desk, squeezing and shaping this silky-smooth sand. It’s such a tactile experience, almost like a stress-relief session in itself. Plus, there’s no cleanup hassle!

Playing with kinetic sand isn’t just about making shapes; it’s a creative escape that helps calm your mind. Whether you’re smoothing it out or building mini castles, it’s a hands-on way to unwind and get creative. So, next time you need to unwind, grab some kinetic sand and let the soothing sensation wash away your stress. It’s relaxation with a twist!

Check out the Pinterest pins below for self-improvement ideas.

#15. Pet Therapy

Pet therapy is like a furry prescription for stress relief! Whether you’re a die-hard animal lover or just someone who appreciates a good cuddle, spending time with therapy animals can work wonders after a hectic day.

Imagine this: you’re at an animal sanctuary, surrounded by wagging tails and purring companions. The moment you pet a dog or snuggle up with a cat, you can feel the stress melt away. It’s not just about the fuzzy cuteness—interacting with these animals actually boosts your mood by releasing oxytocin, the bonding hormone.

The calming presence of animals brings comfort and companionship, creating a joyful escape from daily pressures. Whether you’re stroking a soft fur or watching playful antics, pet therapy helps you unwind and find peace in their gentle presence. So, next time you need a pick-me-up, consider spending time with some furry friends—it’s like therapy with a wagging tail!

#16. Laughter Yoga

Laughter yoga is like hitting the happiness gym—it’s all about flexing those laughter muscles for a stress-busting workout! This unique practice blends laughter exercises with deep breathing techniques to help you unwind and feel amazing.

No jokes needed! Laughter yoga starts with fake laughter that turns into genuine giggles as you go. It floods your body with endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that lift your spirits and melt away stress.

Imagine you’re in a laughter yoga session, warming up with playful exercises and then diving into contagious giggles. Whether solo or in a group, clapping, laughing, and interacting with others makes it even more fun.

Make laughter yoga a regular part of your routine to keep stress at bay and bring more laughter into your life—it’s the ultimate stress-relief hack!

#17. Fire Gazing

Fire gazing isn’t just about staring at flames—it’s a serene journey into relaxation and tranquility. Whether you’re cozied up by an indoor fireplace or gathered around an outdoor campfire, the rhythmic dance of the flames works wonders for easing tension and calming a busy mind.

As you watch the flickering firelight, its gentle warmth wraps around you, melting away the stress of the day. The mesmerizing movements of the flames draw you into a meditative state, where mindfulness takes center stage and worries fade into the background.

Even if you don’t have a fireplace at home, camping or finding a fire pit outdoors can turn fire gazing into a delightful routine. It’s a simple yet powerful way to unwind, reflect, and recharge amidst the natural beauty and soothing warmth of the fire. So, next time you need to de-stress, why not let the flames work their magic?

#18. Floatation Therapy

Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or float therapy, offers a truly unique way to unwind and recharge. Picture yourself effortlessly floating in a warm water tank filled with Epsom salt, where all external stimuli like light, sound, and gravity vanish into blissful nothingness. It’s like drifting weightlessly in a serene cocoon of relaxation.

This tranquil environment isn’t just about escaping the noise—it’s about deep relaxation and rejuvenation. As you float, your muscles relax, tension melts away, and your mind clears. Many float enthusiasts swear by its ability to alleviate chronic pain, enhance sleep quality, and boost overall well-being.

To experience floatation therapy, seek out specialized centers or spas that offer these sessions. Typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes, each session provides ample time to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. Whether you’re seeking stress relief or better sleep, starting with one to two sessions per week can unlock the full benefits of this soothing practice.

#19. Visit A Sensory Room

Relaxing in a sensory room is like stepping into a calming oasis filled with soothing lights, gentle sounds, and tactile wonders. Whether you find them in wellness centers, spas, hospitals, or schools, these rooms are designed to engage your senses and melt away stress.

Imagine sinking into a plush chair or bean bag, surrounded by soft lighting that shifts in tranquil hues. You might hear calming music or nature sounds softly playing in the background, creating a serene ambiance. Some rooms offer tactile objects like textured surfaces or soothing materials to touch, adding an extra layer of sensory delight.

At wellness centers and spas, sensory rooms are part of relaxation therapies, offering a peaceful haven to recharge after a hectic day. In hospitals, they help patients unwind and support therapeutic treatments. Schools use them as safe spaces for children with sensory needs to relax and refocus.

Each sensory room is tailored to cater to different sensory preferences, ensuring a personalized retreat where you can escape, unwind, and restore your inner calm. Whether you’re seeking a moment of peace or a sanctuary to destress, stepping into a sensory room can be a delightful and rejuvenating experience.

Check out the Pinterest pins below for daily inspiration.

#20. Self-Care Jar

“Taking time to do nothing often brings everything into perspective.”

Doe Zantamata

Creating a self-care jar is like crafting your own personal toolbox for happiness and relaxation. It’s a simple yet creative way to unwind and destress, tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Here’s how you can get started: grab a jar and some colorful strips of paper. On each strip, jot down a self-care activity that resonates with you. It could be something as soothing as savoring a favorite treat, taking a leisurely walk, or simply curling up with a good book. Get playful with it—maybe include activities you’ve been wanting to try or those that always bring a smile to your face.

Once your jar is filled with these little nuggets of self-care wisdom, it becomes your go-to resource on hectic days or when stress creeps in. Feeling overwhelmed after a tough day? Reach into your jar and pull out a strip. Let’s say it suggests “watch a funny movie”—instant mood lift! The beauty of the self-care jar is that it offers a tangible way to practice mindfulness and prioritize your well-being in the midst of life’s demands.

Whether you pick a strip randomly or choose one that speaks to you in the moment, each activity is a gentle reminder to nurture yourself. It’s about finding joy in the little things and carving out moments of peace amidst the hustle and bustle. So, why not give it a try? Create your own self-care jar today and discover how these simple acts of kindness to yourself can brighten your day and promote relaxation whenever you need it most.