As the intro song to Friends goes: When it hasn’t been your day, your week, your month, or even your year

Whether you are simply super busy or you are not seeing eye to eye with a co-worker, we all have crap days at work. Given we one third of our lives at our job, we need a way to unwind after a particularly stressful or bad day. Here are some suggestions for activities that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to face the next day.

1. WORK IT OUT

It might sound a bit obvious but exercise is the best thing you can do to relieve you of anger and stress, plus the resulting endorphins will help lift your spirits. Exercising after work might feel a bit strange if you’re used to working out in the morning. If you think that it will leave you too hyped up, try attending a yoga class.

Perfect for if: you’re angry or upset at work

 

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2. GET OUTSIDE / AWAY FROM SCREENS

Even if you’re not exercising, spending some time outside can make you feel miles better. The opportunity to breathe in some fresh air and get away from any screens (mobile, computer, TV) can help you to practise mindfulness and gratitude.

Perfect for if: you’re sick of staring at a computer

 

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3. CATCH UP WITH A FRIEND AND TALK IT OUT

There’s nothing like venting to a friend to make you feel better, plus they might be able to offer some insight into whatever has been making your day(s) at work so awful lately. For suggestions on where to meet after work, check out 7 cafes open after 7pm foryour new after work meeting spot.

Perfect for if: you need to vent or get some advice

4. TREAT YOURSELF

As tempting as it might be to grab a pint of Ben & Jerry’s and binge a season of your favourite tv show, ther are other more productive ways to treat yourself. An after work massage at Sui Massage & Day Spa (open until 10pm each day) or Hale Spa (open until 7 pm on Tuesday, 8pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays or 6pm on Fridays)

Perfect for if: you deserve it (which is all the time frankly!)

 

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5. CUDDLE UP WITH YOUR PET

Take time to focus positive energy on your pet. Not only will your pet love you for it, but it’ll also bring your stress levels down a notch.

Perfect for if: you have a pet – this one works all the time

 

6. SKIP TOWN

Only for the weekend we mean! Maybe you need a treechange to bring back your joie de vivrefor your work. Check out this article for day trips away from Canberra.

Perfect for if: you’ve lost your motivation and need a mini holiday