Your 5 to 9 Is Just As Important As Your 9 to 5
Finding time for self-care between work and sleep can feel impossible. But what if you could create a holistic routine that leaves you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and grounded? Your post-9–5 hours are more than just time to decompress; they’re an opportunity to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
Here’s a quick guide to designing a simple and impactful 5–9 routine tailored just for you.
1. Transition from Work Mode to Home Mode
Switching gears after a day of meetings, deadlines, and responsibilities is crucial. Start with a dedicated “transition ritual” to signal the end of your workday:
- Take a quick 10-minute walk to clear your head.
- Change into your comfy clothes to physically distance yourself from work stress.
- Light a candle or diffuse essential oils (lavender and eucalyptus are great for relaxation).
This small act of separation helps you shift your energy and reclaim your space.
2. Fuel Your Body the Right Way
Dinner doesn’t need to be elaborate to be nourishing. Consider creating a wholesome meal with fresh, whole ingredients, like a simple veggie stir-fry or a hearty salad.
Short on time? Prep ingredients the night before or try a meal delivery service with healthy, pre-portioned options. Pair your meal with herbal tea or a glass of kombucha to wind down.
3. Move Your Body, Gently
Post-work exercise can be incredibly grounding, but it doesn’t always have to mean an intense workout. Try these simple options for movement:
- A calming yoga flow to release tension.
- A brisk walk to get your heart pumping without overloading your nervous system.
- Stretching or foam rolling to ease out the knots from sitting all day.
Gentle movement tells your body it’s time to relax and promotes better sleep later.
4. Screen-Free, Mindful Time
Put your phone down (we know, it’s hard) and dedicate at least 30 minutes to an activity that grounds you. Some ideas include:
- Journaling about what went well during the day.
- Meditating or practising breathwork to calm your mind.
- Getting lost in a good book to escape and unwind.
Creating a digital boundary will help you stay present and declutter your mind.
5. Prepare for Tomorrow, Today
A relaxed evening starts with a stress-free morning. Before heading to bed:
- Lay out your clothes and prep your breakfast.
- Create a to-do list so you can start your day with clarity.
- Pencil in time for self-care tomorrow to keep the feel-good momentum going.
Ending your day with intention can set you up for success before your alarm even goes off.
Create Your 5–9, Your Way
Your post-work hours don’t have to disappear in a cloud of Netflix and takeaway. With a little intention and a few mindful choices, your evenings can become the most grounding, enriching part of your day.