The last 12 months has hit many of us harder than we ever imagined possible, and it is daunting to think about going back to our previous schedules after being at home for so long. As the world starts to turn once more and go back to normal, we want to discuss how you can cope with the extra stress of ‘normal’ routines and how to treat yourself and practice some self care if you start to feel overwhelmed.

It is so important after a stressful period to take control and figure out what steps you can take to make yourself feel better. Don’t wait for anyone else to come along and fix it for you, the onus should be on you to do it yourself. Having a sense of control over your own life is actually a great way to feel like the ball is back in your court and so you shouldn’t shy away from taking small steps to getting yourself back on track. We have put together a few different ideas that you could try out to help you feel less stressed and help you enjoy your time a little more.

Have A Movie Night

If the stress of the week has rendered your body and mind exhausted, one great idea would be to dim the lights, grab some snacks, and cuddle up under a blanket for a film night. Sometimes the brain simply needs to switch off - and this is why turning off your phone and enjoying a few movies is perfect for your restoration. Make the most of the relaxing time you have and don’t think about a single thing for a while…..Even better with cinemas now open again you could splash out and actually go the whole hog by taking a trip to an actual movie theatre. The change of scenery and excitement of watching something on the big screen will be sure to distract your attention away from any worry and stress.

Book A Table Out

If you want to feel special and you are trapped in the same old monotonous routine - the best way to fix this is to break the cycle. If you get home and make dinner and then sit in front of the tv for hours before bed you’re bound to get fed up after a while, especially as the last 12 months have been spent pretty much like this everyday; change this. With our new found freedoms, get home, get dressed, and go for dinner with or without your partner. Spending a little time in a restaurant or at a bar can be a great way to let go of the tension you feel and allow you to enjoy yourself for a while.

Order Afternoon Tea

One fun way to spruce up a weekend afternoon at home is to order in an afternoon tea. Afternoon tea is a type of British tradition that involves finger sandwiches, cakes, and of course tea. The evolution of the British Afternoon Tea has seen it become popular all over the world and if you don’t want to go out anywhere right now you can actually order afternoon tea to your home. With restrictions now allowing two households or groups of six indoors you could call up friends or family, set the table at home and indulge in a lazy afternoon together. It will allow you to feel like you are doing something special even if you have no energy to travel anywhere or feel uneasy about being out and about. Check out Afternoon Tea Box for UK delivery.

*You could try a little bit of retail therapy.*

Buy Something New

Now if you really want to make yourself feel better after a stressful week and one of your issues is self-confidence - buying a new outfit for yourself might just be the ticket. Of course, spending money on clothes is not always the answer however sometimes you just need that pick me up to make you feel like a million bucks again. Being able to walk around the house or go out in a new dress will make you feel so much more confident and happy overall and with so many affordable options available online and in store you really don’t have to blow the budget. Investing in something that you can wear time and time again for the same price as a couple of coffees a week might just be a better way to spend your money than on a caffeine fix. The feeling that you get when you look in the mirror wearing something you love will always bring a smile to your face and give you that little extra confidence boost.

Featured