In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, having a full, busy day is becoming too common. Most of us are glued to our computer screens and mobile phones almost 24/7. Our responsibilities at work and home are getting too overwhelming, to the point that we forget to take a break.

And just when you thought things couldn’t get any worse, the coronavirus pandemic happened. The current health crisis has made our lives even more stressful. Millions of jobs are at risk. Thousands of businesses are no longer reopening. Several workers were forced to work from home, while students were put on homeschool for the time being.

This setup seems to be a safer and more practical solution. However, this might not work for everyone. Parents are now struggling to balance their work and household responsibilities amid remote working and distance learning. Those who are quarantining alone might start to develop anxiety or depression during self-isolation, with no one else around to talk to or to help them with chores at home.

Such unprecedented stress can become too draining and exhausting. It can make you feel dull and worn out. And amid these trying times, nothing is more important than having a well-deserved mental break. 

Had it been another normal day, most of us would have gone on a quick weekend getaway to de-stress. But with a deadly virus lurking, we might as well find creative ways to unwind at home. Fortunately, here are some low-key ways that you can do to recharge your energy after a hectic week:

1. Unplug from work and all your electronics.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced employers across the globe to implement remote working. This might sound beneficial to most workers, especially for working parents. However, recent studies have shown that some employees have been feeling more stressed out while working remotely. In fact, 86% of workers globally have been experiencing moderate to extreme stress since the pandemic started in March.

As a result, more people have fallen victim to mental illnesses over the past months. For instance, in the U.S., anxiety and depression screenings rose by 70% and 64%, respectively, between January and April alone.

Maximize your weekend by disconnecting from work and social media. Some people would set aside a day or two where electronic gadgets like laptops and smartphones are prohibited. If you can, take some extra days off work and focus on relaxing. This sounds so simple, but it can effectively relieve stress and boost your productivity for the next working week.

2. Recreate your spa day at home. 

Nothing beats a relaxing, warm bath after a full day of work. Have your own spa night at home by lighting up some scented candles in your bathroom. Scents like lavender and eucalyptus can help you relax and get better sleep afterward. Put up some soothing music while you do your skincare routine to help you free your mind from your usual thoughts.

If you have some extra cash to splurge, you can consider installing a portable bullfrog spa in your backyard or a new hot tub in the shower to further upgrade your at-home spa experience. 

3. Exercise or go for a short walk. 

Doing some simple exercises at home can help you release tension and overwhelming emotions that might have drained your energy. You can also go for a short walk around your neighborhood and embrace the scenery. Studies have shown that staring at natural sceneries even just for 40 seconds can already trigger calmness into the brain, healing both your mind and your body. Just make sure to wear a mask and observe proper social distancing while you are outdoors. 

4. Meditate.

If you’re not a fan of sweating buckets, meditation might be the perfect stress reliever for you. Take a break from work and focus on your breathing, even for only two minutes. Slow and deep breathing has been known to have calming effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. Meanwhile, belly breathing, or breathing through your diaphragm, can reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol, which can improve your mood and focus significantly. 

5. Get enough sleep. 

While it is obvious that getting enough rest is the most effective personal battery charger, most people tend to neglect it. In fact, more than half of the world’s adult population are getting less sleep than they need on an average night, according to the Princess Cruises’ Annual Relaxation Report. Aside from the inability to function well the next day, lack of sleep can lead to more serious health consequences like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression. Doctors recommend getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night.

Life can get too overwhelming and demanding sometimes. However, hardworking individuals like you deserve to take a break and recharge. These low-key ways can help you refill your energy and conquer another busy week ahead.