8 Simple Ways to Relax and Unwind After a Hectic Workday in London

8 Simple Ways to Relax and Unwind After a Hectic Workday in London
By Lifestyle
Sep 30

8 Simple Ways to Relax and Unwind After a Hectic Workday in London

Life in London is fast-paced, especially for professionals juggling packed schedules, tight deadlines, and demanding commutes. So much so that nearly 50% of employees in the UK are experiencing burnout, mental health issues, and stress from work.

After a long workday, it’s essential to unwind and release the day’s stress to recharge for the next.

In the busy city, you can relax in many simple yet effective ways, whether you like being alone, staying active, or spending time with friends.

Practical Tips to Relax in London

Here are some practical tips to relax after a hectic workday in London.

  • Take a Walk in One of London’s Beautiful Parks

London is well-known for its beautiful parks, perfect for unwinding and relaxing after a busy day. You can find peace at Hyde Park, Green Park, and St. James’s Park, where you can escape the busy city life. Taking a leisurely walk in nature, listening to the birds, and watching the sunset can help calm your mind and reduce stress.

Many ducks walking towards lake in Hyde Park

People are siting and some are walking in the Green Park

Outer view of the St. James’s Park

If you work nearby, consider taking a 20-minute walk in a nearby park before heading home. Being in a new environment and breathing fresh air can significantly impact your emotions.

  • Enjoy a Quiet Drink at a Cosy Bar

Unwinding at a cosy bar in London is best enjoyed with coworkers or companions. If you are close to the city, the best bars on Fenchurch Street provide a comfortable setting for relaxing with a drink post-work. These locations offer a calm atmosphere, perfect for socialising with friends or savouring alone time.

Arial view of the Fenchurch Street

Bars with a comfortable atmosphere, quiet lighting, and cosy seating offer a charming space to unwind from workday stress and find tranquillity. Select an intimate location for the best relaxation experience.

  • Pamper Yourself with a Spa Visit

London has a lot of fancy spas where you can treat yourself to well-deserved relaxation. After a long day of work or meetings, you can enjoy an experience of:

  • Massage
  • Facial
  • Sauna for relaxation

Visiting a spa isn’t just about relaxing your body – it’s also great for calming your mind and boosting your energy. Plenty of spas in the city offer various services such as aromatherapy and holistic treatments to help you feel balanced and refreshed. And if spending a whole day at a spa sounds too much, some spas in London offer shorter after-work packages designed for busy professionals.

  • Decompress with an Evening Yoga Class

Yoga is a great way to unwind after a long working day. In London, you can find evening yoga classes that are perfect for relaxation. Whether you like gentle yoga or more active yoga, it releases stress and calms your mind. Many places in the city offer classes for people of all levels, so it’s easy to find one near your workplace. If you’re new to yoga, don’t worry! Many studios have classes for beginners, and you’ll soon see that deep breathing and stretching reduce stress.

  • Savour the City’s Culture with an Evening at the Theatre

London’s top-notch theatre scene offers a perfect escape from reality through engaging plays and musicals. If you enjoy the West End or prefer a cosy, private theatre setting, multiple shows are available to cater to all preferences.

Market of the West End of London in night

Attending a live performance can help you relax after a long workday. Many theatres give discounted evening show tickets, so you can enjoy this refreshing experience without overspending.

  • Explore the Southbank for an Evening Stroll

Southbank is known for its charming riverside scenery and lively cultural vibe in London. According to Statista, around 3.2 million people visited the Southbank Centre in the UK in 2023, highlighting the importance of this place. After you finish work:

  • Go for a leisurely walk by the river.
  • Breathe in the fresh air.
  • Appreciate the views.

Arial view of the Southbank of evening

You will see famous landmarks such as the London Eye and Tower Bridge, creating a pleasant way to end the day. Also, along the route, you’ll discover a variety of:

  • Street performers
  • Food stalls
  • Cafes

Evening view of the The London Eye

Tower Bridge over the River Thames, London.

You can grab a quick snack or enjoy the changing view of the Thames as the city lights start to twinkle at night.

River Thames at Night

  • Enjoy a Home-cooked Meal or Try a New Recipe

Cooking a healthy meal can be soothing and enjoyable if you’re staying home. Instead of grabbing fast food, take some time to cook a meal at home. Try out a new recipe if you feel like it. Chopping vegetables, mixing sauces, and making something delicious can be calming and help you focus on the current moment. 

If you’re short on time, look for simple and yummy recipes that take 30 minutes or less. Cooking a nutritious and delicious meal for yourself can make you feel nourished and ready to unwind for the evening.

  • Watch Your Favourite Show or Read a Good Book

Sometimes, the best way to unwind after a busy day is by doing nothing at all. Whether you prefer curling up on the sofa with your favourite TV show, binge-watching a series, or getting lost in a good book, taking this quiet time for yourself can help you recharge for the next day.

Remember, relaxation doesn’t have to be complicated. It can involve activities that bring you a sense of calm and balance; even if that means spending the day in your pyjamas enjoying your favourite shows.

Conclusion

London offers many ways to relax after a busy day, like having a drink at cosy bars on Fenchurch Street, leisurely walking in a park, or calming yourself down via yoga. Adding these simple activities to your daily routine allows you to relax and feel ready to take on whatever comes your way tomorrow.