By Funke Babs-Kufeji
There’s nothing quite like the relief of getting home after a hectic workday. It’s your sanctuary, the place you unwind and let go. But here’s the twist: some of the ways you’re “relaxing” might actually be adding stress to your life without you realising it. Yes, you might be sabotaging your peace in subtle ways. If you’re all about leaving work stress at the door and reclaiming your evenings, here are a few post-work habits that might be working against you—and what to try instead.
Bingeing on Screen Time
It’s a hard habit to break: the pull of the TV, gaming, or endless scrolling. Screens are fun, but too much screen time can mess with your sleep and leave your mind overstimulated. Not only does the blue light affect your eyes, but it also keeps your brain buzzing when it should be winding down. Instead, try setting a “no-screens” period before bed or add mini-breaks if you can’t resist a little Netflix.
Getting Lost in Social Media
Ah, social media—the quick fix for boredom and our virtual social lives. But spending hours online can lead to a nasty loop of comparing your day to someone else’s highlight reel. Constantly scrolling can create anxiety and frustration, especially if you’re feeling the pressure to keep up. Set a limit for your scrolling time, and maybe consider unplugging in the evenings. Your mind will thank you for it.
Reaching for Snacks
After a long day, cooking might feel like a mountain to climb, and grabbing snacks is so tempting. But let’s be real—those salty, sugary treats aren’t doing you any favours. They might feel like a quick pick-me-up, but they can lead to energy crashes and mood swings later. Instead, consider prepping a few simple meals or healthy snacks ahead of time. You’ll thank yourself when the hunger hits.
Skipping Exercise
Exercise is a proven stress-buster, but it’s easy to skip when the couch calls. Skipping workouts regularly can actually leave you feeling more sluggish and stressed over time. Don’t let the idea of a full workout stop you—start small! A quick stretch, a walk, or even a few minutes of dancing can lift your mood and keep stress at bay.
Sitting (and Sitting Some More)
If you’re sitting all day at work and then sink right into the couch at home, you’re compounding the health risks. Prolonged sitting has been linked to everything from heart disease to even some cancers. To break the cycle, get creative. Stand while watching TV, stretch every 30 minutes, or put on your favourite song and have a mini dance session. Little movements make a big difference.
Solving Tomorrow’s Problems in Bed
We’ve all been there—lying in bed, mentally tackling tomorrow’s to-do list. It seems harmless, but turning bedtime into planning time only disrupts your sleep. Instead, keep a notebook by your bed and jot down any tasks or ideas that pop into your head. Putting your thoughts on paper can bring you peace, knowing it’s there for you to deal with tomorrow.
