How do you relax after a hectic shift?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, DSU, Ortho, Onc, Psych.

I like my hot showers and a half glass of wine, but seem to be having wine every night just a bout! I'm looking for new ways to help deal with stress and relax. What is your passion for relaxing after dealing with the politics and tiredness associated with nursing?

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A long run, a hot shower, comfy night clothes and a cold beer! Makes 12 hours of crazy almost worth it!

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Specializes in ICU, ER, EP,.

Well, I do several things depending upon whether I wish to relax or burn off that adrenaline.

1. Adrenaline, I have an eliptical, sorry sp, machine that I burn off my energy or take the dogs for a walk, mind you I have 3 ankle bitters and it's not always relaxing to choose the doggies, but they are fun and loving. Or unfortunately I call my hubby at work and just gripe, he simply listens and I feel better.

2. To calm, I take a quick shower, then hit the jet stream tub with a glass of wine and my favorite book with great smelling bubbles. And again, the wine....:D

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Specializes in Hospice, LTC, Rehab, Home Health.

I take a hot shower/soak in tub with bubbles, then a good book (non-nursing related) and cup of apple-cinnamon tea. Mmmm!

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Specializes in Emergency & Trauma/Adult ICU.

I use my drive time to make the transition between work and home. Music is my thing, so I keep a wide variety of CDs in the car and make it loud, usually, although a particularly emotional day may find me driving home in silence. I do not call anyone on my way home unless absolutely necessary. I do not stop to run any errands. That 35 min. is my time.

At home, my family and pets are a definite boost. About 1/2 the time I have a drink. I try to just sit quietly for a minute or two, reflect on my blessings, and consciously let go of any lingering pressure, resentment, or other bad karma.

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Specializes in Advanced Practice, surgery.

I ride my motorbike home then have a hot bath.

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I climb into my car and all my favorite CD's are there for me to enjoy for the 1/2 hr commute home.

At home, my husband has french toast, waffles or whatever comfort food I have requested.

Then I take a relaxing shower, change into pyjamas and pick up some light reading.

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Specializes in Geriatrics and Quality Improvement,.

books on cd for me.

find a series that takes you away from thinking about the job.

i choose things not of this era or generation, or couldnt be soised in our time.

boylen girs, white queen, amelia peabody etc. i also choose things that can be in our time, but are science fictionistic..

a sigma series (scientists with guns) book.

cant even remember to get milk or gas sometimes.

:jester::nurse:

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

Ambien. ;) (jk)

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Let me loose in the kitchen and Stand Back!!! The harder the night, the more difficult the recipe I cook. I love getting lost in a great book or movie, hot cup of Tea, snuggy blanket, canine babies at my feet, and a bite of what ever I cooked. Life is good!

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

My canine babies always relax me. Lola always knows when I have had a hard shift, so when I come in the door she follows me to my couch, jumps on my lap and looks up at me with those big brown eyes as if to say "I'm so happy you're home Momma!" and promptly licks my face until I giggle. My hubby rubs my back and feet after I take a hot shower. I love my family.

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Specializes in Spinal Cord injuries, Emergency+EMS.

a selection of loud music to put inthe CD player i nthe car

the love of mrs Zippy and the zippy household cat

posting here and a few other places

a sensible amount of single malt whisky

a comfy bed with mrs zippy +/- the cat

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