Maximizing 5-9 after 9-5: Realistic life after the hustle

LIFE can be incredibly draining, exhausting our physical and mental well-being, especially after spending the entire day out. Falling fast asleep upon returning home can offer a semblance of comfort and warmth after a long, tiring day.

However, this stressful struggle must not be tackled alone. Many individuals, including students and adults, experience challenging days. It is estimated that 65 million Filipinos use commuting as a mode of transport. Due to the Philippine transport system’s inaccessibility and persistent traffic issues, this daily exercise can be particularly draining.

Denver Lee, a commuter since 2011, shared his routine and what he does after a full day at work.

“When I have some extra time, I bond with my dogs, walk them in the park. Sometimes, we go to cafés (preferably pet-friendly cafés) or just roam around the subdivision for food tripping,” he said.

Denver also recommended spending more time with family and friends to cope and heal.

Meanwhile, Derick Lance, a student-commuter since 2012, shared that his after-school routine is simply resting and sleeping.

“It’s the only time I can get any rest after spending 17 hours a day awake,” Derick said.

On occasions when there’s a heavy workload, he suggested organizing and managing time effectively, believing it to be a prerequisite for a productive day.

These after-work or after-school habits serve as ways to relax and get rid of work jitters.

Revitalize your routine

1. Work stays at work: People have the tendency to bring work at home, which is a big NO! Always set limits and never push yourself beyond them.
2. Yoga or any relaxing exercise: Conditioning the body with stretching and loosening up is important. It also presents a perfect opportunity for practicing mindfulness.
3. A good warm bath: A warm shower can provide much-needed relaxation. Clean up and enjoy a soothing bath.
4. EAT!: Consuming nutritious food contributes to overall health. A happy stomach supports a healthier and longer life.
5. Enough sleep: Aiming for 6-8 hours of sleep each night is crucial to functioning well the next day. Remember, the quality of sleep can affect daily performance.

These recommendations work best when tailored to individual needs. It’s normal if the day doesn’t align perfectly with these suggestions; sometimes, simply lying down in bed to rest is sufficient.

If things are tough, consider reaching out to family or friends. Remember, taking breaks is just as important as completing tasks.

With reports from Alexis Fei Caceres