10+ Calming Ways to Relieve Stress After a Busy Day of Work (For Women in Their 20s & 30s)

Busy day at work? Girl, same.
Some days feel like too many phone calls, too many emails, and that magical moment where everything that can go wrong… does. By the end of the day, your brain feels fried, your body feels tense, and all you want is peace.

But the million-dollar question is:
How do you actually relieve stress after a long, overwhelming day?

Don’t worry—I’ve got you.
I’ve worked consistently since the day I turned 16, and I’ve had a lot of years to figure out what actually helps me unwind. These habits are simple, comforting, and perfect for the everyday woman who wants to relax without spending a ton of money.

Let’s get into it.


1. Take a Hot Shower (or a Cold One if You’re REALLY Stressed)

Taking a shower after a long day is honestly a cheat code.
Wash off your makeup, put on your comfiest clothes, and give yourself permission to reset your energy.

Why it works:
Water literally signals your nervous system to calm down. It’s like washing away the day… mentally and physically.

If you’re extremely overwhelmed:
Take a cold shower for 30–60 seconds.
I know it sounds dramatic, but it shocks your system just enough to break that anxiety spiral and put you in a peaceful headspace.


2. Light a Candle & Let Aromatherapy Do Its Magic

A clean scent like lavender, eucalyptus, or sandalwood can shift your entire mood.
Aromatherapy works by signaling your brain to relax, slow down, and breathe deeper.

It’s such a small thing—but girl, your nervous system LOVES it.


3. Put On Your Comfort Show or Movie

We all have that one thing we can put on and instantly feel safe.
For me, it’s Y2K reality TV—easy watching, no stress, pure happiness.

Your “comfort show” should:

  • make you smile
  • feel predictable
  • not raise your heart rate
  • remind you of a happy time

TIP: Avoid the news. There’s almost never anything uplifting, and you don’t need that energy in your home.


4. Fix the Lighting in Your Space

If you work in an office or around harsh fluorescent lighting all day, this is life changing.
When you get home, dim the lights or switch on your lamps. Your nervous system relaxes instantly.

Don’t have dimmers?
Get a mood light from Amazon.
I use one that changes colors so my room feels cozy without being bright.


5. Treat Yourself to a Face Mask

Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy.
Clean your face, grab a mask, and remind yourself that you are worthy of love, rest, and comfort.

No mask? Try these:

  • egg white tightening mask
  • chilled cucumber rubbed on your face (sounds insane but 10/10—so soothing)

6. Eat Your Favorite Comfort Snack

This is a safe space.
If you need a cookie, eat the cookie.
If Goldfish hits the spot, go for it.

You work hard. A little treat won’t hurt your goals—it’ll give your brain a moment of joy.


7. Step Outside for Fresh Air

You don’t have to walk, run, or do anything productive.
Just step outside.
The world is quieter at night, and breathing in cool air after a long day is a simple, peaceful reset.


8. Allow Yourself to Do Nothing

I know—every list tells you to be “productive” or “clean your space.”

Not here.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is… nothing.
The dishes will be there tomorrow.
Your laundry isn’t going anywhere.
You deserve to hit pause.


9. Have a Glass of Wine (If You Want To)

I’m not saying go wild, but a single glass of red wine is known to reduce anxiety and help you decompress.

Your comfort is allowed.
Your rituals are allowed.
Your glass of wine is allowed.


10. Vent to Someone You Love

Never hold all that stress in.
Call your best friend, your partner, your mom—whoever your safe person is.

“Girl, listen to this…”
Let it out. Let someone support you. You don’t have to carry the day alone.


🌿 The Truth? You Don’t Need Money to Relax

Not every woman can afford a full spa day or ordering takeout every night—and that’s okay.
Peace isn’t expensive.
Calm isn’t expensive.
Softness isn’t expensive.

All you need… is you.

These habits are simple, accessible, and perfect after a long, overwhelming day of work. Use whatever resonates, let go of the rest, and make your evenings a place of comfort and calm.

One response to “10+ Calming Ways to Relieve Stress After a Busy Day of Work (For Women in Their 20s & 30s)”

  1. How I’m Learning to Stop Overthinking and Find Peace in My Late Twenties – The Renewal Mindset Avatar

    […] Exercise is powerful — and for nights when I don’t make it to the gym, I turn to simpler at-home rituals: Click Here to Read 10 CALMING Ways to Relax After a Busy Day of Work! […]

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I’m Erin!

Welcome to The Renewal Mindset! I’m Erin, a property pro and self-care junkie here to share everything I’ve learned about managing properties and building confidence. From career tips to wellness routines, this blog is for women who want to grow, glow, and feel unstoppable in every area of life.

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