By Casa de Suna
Published Oct 29
Lucky for us, the pandemic is now more than five years in the rearview mirror.
This means lots of lovely things, but one of the readjustments people have the most mixed reactions to is the return to office. Some welcome it, others dread it–but the reality is: it’s happening. And with long commutes, packed 9-to-5s, and a culture that seems to make us think we need to do it all, it can be tough to wind down after a work day. So, if you’re looking for a little bit of advice in that department–read along for our top tips.
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Plan your week in advance
The first way to ensure you’re making the most of your non-workbound weekday hours is by planning them. If you don’t take control of your schedule, your schedule will take control of you! And, no, this doesn’t mean meticulously meal-prepping, planning every outfit, and packing each night with workouts and social plans.
In fact, it could mean the opposite: plan the days when you won’t be cooking, so you can budget for a cheeky takeout meal, or set up a lunch hangout with a friend who works near you; look ahead to your busiest day, and know that you probably won’t workout or get dressed in a seriously stylish #OOTD that day. It’s not about planning perfectly: it’s about knowing your limits.
…and schedule wisely
Speaking of which: remember that we all have different social batteries. If yours is particularly high, and you’re an extrovert who thrives off of social interaction, then, by all means, schedule a dinner or a plan of some sort for every night post-work. If you prefer a bit of weekly alone time to recharge, set a day on your calendar where you don’t make any plans, no matter what.
Stockpile little treats
Let’s be honest: sometimes you may be too tired to do anything productive after work. And, for those days, it’s important to ensure you’ve got treats at home to help make the evening a little bit sweeter. We love keeping a stock of bath oils, epsom salts, scented candles, sparkling beverages, and our favorite chocolates to brighten even the most stressful days in the simplest way.
But also weave in accountability
Sometimes, especially when you’re in a bit of a rut, relaxing after work can worsen it, instead of making you feel better. So, when we’re feeling particularly dreary (read: seasonal changes, colder weather, etc), we like to hold ourselves accountable to evening plans that we know will make us feel good. So yes: this is your sign to book that workout class or therapy session or dinner reservation you’ll get charged for canceling–because sometimes, you don’t realize something is what you really needed until you show up.
Know your chronotype
Another crucial bit of knowledge for your post-work wind down: your chronotype. Chronotypes are an individual’s genetic sleep preference. You’ve heard the phrases “early bird” and “night owl,” and chronotyping simply takes the concept to a newer, more science-backed level: lions wake up early, are most productive in the morning, and may struggle to socialize in the evening; bears are social, and wake up around sunrise; wolves are creative thinkers who thrive in the afternoon and go to bed late; and dolphins are sensitive sleepers with “fragmented sleep patterns” (those who struggle to sleep). Once you figure out your chronotype, it’ll be easier to know whether pre- or post-work plans suit you better.
Stick by a strict “off” time
And no matter how you’re wired, it’s always best to set a clear boundary between work and leisure. Yes, we all have access to emails on our phone–but the easiest way to relax is being clear and boundaried about when you’ll stop reading and answering them. We like setting our phone to “Do Not Disturb” no later than 8pm and turning off our phone for the night an hour later.
That’s all for the post work wind-down! If you have any tips, or follow any of ours, tag us on social media @casa.de.suna
