After a long nursing shift, my brain basically feels like it has 27 tabs open – maybe a few tabs frozen. So, I’ve developed a few little rituals that help me unwind and feel human again.

1. The “I’m washing this day off me” shower.

This is not optional. The water pressure alone just brings me back to life – it also gives you some time away from people when you get home which is a win-win. This is the best way to mentally clock out – it’s giving “not my problem anymore”.

2. Changing into clothes that feel like a hug.

One word: Pyjamas.

Aaanddd a dressing gown, warm blanket and slippers.

3. A comforting hot drink

This can only be a hot cup of Yorkshire Tea. Not too strong, not too milky. You won’t catch me drinking anything else. Also x10 throughout the day. How else would I survive the nursing shift?

4. A few rows of crochet for comfort

Crochet is better than meditation for me. Repeating stitches, concentrating on the project, not thinking about anything else but the mild delusion that I’ll finish this project before starting a new one. Even 5 minutes of this is better than none.

5. Some screen-free time before bed.

Even though I love doom scrolling, I try hard to give my brain a rest, especially after using screens at work all day too. Sometimes I read or other times, I burrito myself into a blanket and stare at the ceiling. Both are fine!

These simple rituals may seem like normal things that everyone does, but being consistent with this routine helps me unwind and shift back into human mode.