Work is a part of modern life, and a fulfilling day on the job can be rewarding. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is becoming increasingly viewed as a critical component of living a satisfying life, but studies consistently show that people have trouble unwinding after a long day. Fortunately, the process doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are five affordable ways to relax after work.

Take Up Reading

Many people enjoy reading, but fewer of us are actually taking the time to open a book or e-reader and spending time escaping from work and other life pressures. To build any hobby, it’s important to set aside time on a scheduled basis and put in the effort. Whether you’re into fiction or nonfiction, schedule a dedicated amount of time to find books and start reading. Television and movies can also be great to relax, but reading is ideal for disconnecting and expanding your knowledge base and worldview.

Try Cannabis Products

If you want to relax and you’re open to the idea of using cannabis, you might want to check out this article from getkush that talks about the ten most potent Indica cannabis strains. There are many benefits to using cannabis products, including reducing stress and anxiety, so it can be a great way to help you relax.

Relaxing Clothing

Clothing has a major impact on your mood, but many people fail to view clothing as a powerful tool for relaxation. Consider purchasing some comfy loungewear for relaxing after work to make your time on the couch or in bed that much more enjoyable. Loungewear offers the utmost in softness, and a cozy hoodie or pair of sweatpants can help you break away from the pressure of work and other obligations. Try out a few different options, and don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone.

Bathing as Relaxation

Showers feel great, but nothing can replace the luxury of a good bath. Warm water helps relieve muscle strain, and spending time reading, listening to music or even meditating in your bathtub can make an evening or night that much more refreshing. In recent years, more people have discovered how a bath bomb and bath salts can enhance bathing and have you feeling ready to unwind or get some valuable sleep. Trying out a new bath bomb or lighting some candles can help make the mood just right.

Try Out Games

Video games are a popular option for unwinding after work, and you don’t have to focus exclusively on highly competitive games. Narrative-based games can help you detach from reality and offer a novel-like feeling of exploration. Board games have also seen a resurgence in recent years as they provide a fun alternative to digital entertainment. Spending some time playing chess, backgammon, cards or any of the newer board games that have been developed in recent years can help you build a fun hobby to last a lifetime.

Exercising to Relax

Too many people look at exercise as an obligation, but those who spend time building a routine often find it to be an invaluable means to relax and relieve stress. Consider a short walk to start out, and bring along some podcasts or music to pass the time. Sports are another staple of after-work entertainment, and joining a fun league can help you socialize and burn off some excess stress. The health benefits will also help you feel better during your workdays.

Although it may not be intuitive, developing a plan for relaxation can be challenging at first, and it’s easy to fall into old habits. Invest in developing hobbies and relaxing after work; the dividends will pay off over time and help you both in your work and personal life.