John Limpus

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Difficulty Unwinding in the Evenings?

If you are interested in losing weight or increasing your fitness then quality downtime is an absolute must. Not only does your body burn more fat when it is relaxed but it also repairs muscle quicker, so if you are struggling to unwind at the end of a busy day follow the following checklist to help you stay fresh for the challenges ahead.

Chill-out Checkpoint 1 -Plan tomorrow TODAY

If you find it difficult to switch off from work, set aside a few moments at the end of the day and simply write down the FIVE most important things you have to do tomorrow in priority sequence. Not only does this help you prioritize things and feel in control, it also signals that you have finished your work for today and can now leave the office!

Chill-out Checkpoint 2 -When you get home, get out of your work clothes FAST!

How many times do you get back from a hard day at work/running around after children, and go straight into household chores without ever having a moment to get changed? Whilst appearing minor, ridding yourself of all that “busy” energy associated with your work clothes can make a huge difference to how you feel when you are home.

Chill-out Checkpoint 3 -Dim the lights

Many people complain that they find it difficult to unwind in the evenings yet insist on having bright lights and a loud television blaring in the background! No wonder there body is struggling to unwind! Simply dimming the lights and reducing any background noise will help reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and allow the body to relax more efficiently.

Chill-out Checkpoint 4 – Listen to Music NOT the news

Whilst the news may be interesting and entertaining, if you want to help the brain switch OFF, listening to music has been scientifically proven to be more effective. The more relaxing the music, ideally without words, the more effective it will be at helping you unwind.

Chill-out Checkpoint 5 – Read a book rather than watch TV

Although the TV is the easiest thing to switch on at the end of a hard day, all those bright lights and loud noises are more likely to wind you up than chill you out! Reading a book is not only far more interactive and healthy for your brain it is NOT a box with bright lights coming out of it, which is what the majority of people will have been looking at for most of the day!