The Art of Letting Go: How to Unwind

As we move through the busy rhythm of our lives, we often carry the weight of the day long after we’ve left the office and finished our tasks. The demands of work, family, and personal responsibilities don’t just disappear when we clock out; they tend to follow us, hanging over us like a constant hum. The result? An inability to truly unwind, to let go of the stress and busyness of the day, and to be fully present in the moment.

As someone deeply invested in the transformative power of coaching and conscious living, I’ve seen how difficult it can be to create a space for true rest and relaxation. Yet, it’s not only possible—it’s essential for our well-being. Unwinding isn’t just about “checking out” or turning off the stress; it’s about consciously releasing it and creating a boundary between the hustle and the peace within us.

Here are some practices that can help you let go and unwind at the end of the day:

1. Create a Ritual to Close the Day

Try creating a ritual or routine to mark the end of your day. This will signal your brain that it’s time to shift gears. It doesn’t have to be complex or time-consuming, but it should allow you to pause, reflect, and transition into a state of relaxation.

This could be as simple as closing your laptop and physically putting away any work-related materials, setting aside a few minutes to journal, lighting a candle, or sounding a singing bowl. Whatever you choose, make it intentional and do it consistently.

2. Practice Deep Breathing or Meditation

Deep breathing or meditation is one of the most effective ways to calm your mind and relax your nervous system. When we’re stressed, our bodies tend to be in a state of fight-or-flight, keeping us on high alert. Breathing deeply and engaging in mindfulness practices help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for our relaxation response.

Try taking five deep, slow breaths, counting to four as you inhale, holding for a moment, and then exhaling slowly for a count of six. You can also try a guided meditation or a mindfulness practice that helps you be fully present in the moment. Even just a few minutes can make a huge difference.

3. Unplug from Technology

In today’s world, our phones, laptops, and social media feeds are constant sources of stimulation, and they can keep us in an”on” mode well into the evening. To truly unwind, it’s essential to create some distance from technology.   Instead, engage in activities that nourish you—Watch the sunset, read a book, listen to music, take a bath, or enjoy a quiet conversation with someone you love. Disconnecting from the digital world allows you to reconnect with yourself and the people around you.

4. Move Your Body

Movement is another powerful way to release stress and unwind. Although it may seem counterintuitive to engage in physical activity when you only want to relax, gentle movement can help you release tension and ground yourself in your body.

Consider taking a short walk outside to shift your energy. To release physical tension, try gentle yoga or stretching exercises. The key is to find a practice that feels good for your body and helps you feel more centered.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

As you move through these practices, remember that letting go is a practice, not perfection. The goal isn’t to force relaxation but to gently create the space for it to happen. Be kind to yourself, and remember that unwinding is a skill that takes time to develop.

The more you allow yourself to truly let go of the day and create a mindful transition into the evening, the more you’ll notice a shift in how you experience your evenings—and, ultimately, your life. You’ll nourish your mind, body, and spirit by creating intentional boundaries between work and rest.  So, take a deep breath. Let go. And allow yourself to fully unwind. You deserve it!

Karen Kimsey-House is one of the earliest recognized luminaries in the coaching profession and the co-founder of The Co-Active Training Institute (CTI), the only coach training program in the world.  

For over 28 years, Karen has been working with coaches and leaders to create resonating, fulfilling lives that are the highest expression of their unique gifts and true life purpose.  

Karen is the co-author of the industry best-seller Co-Active Coaching, now in its fourth edition. Co-Active Coaching has been translated into fifteen languages and is considered a seminal text for the coaching profession. 

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