Minh Tran
If you’re like me, you end your day in front of a screen.
It’s become a routine—and that’s okay!—but, sometimes, it’s nice to switch things up and make the most of your evening without any digital distractions.
The idea might seem daunting at first, but trust me, there’s a world of relaxation and fun to be discovered without the need for a screen.
In fact, I’ve got eight things you can do tonight that are not only entertaining but also help you unwind and disconnect from the digital world.
Whether it’s about indulging in self-care or just exploring a new hobby, these activities are all about making your evenings more mindful and enjoyable:
1) Meditation
You’ve heard about it, and maybe you’ve even tried it once or twice, but have you ever considered making it a part of your daily routine?
The beauty of meditation is that it’s not only a great way to relax, but it also gives you the opportunity to reconnect with yourself.
It’s a moment of silence in a world that’s usually too loud.
Turn off your phone and sit down somewhere quiet—close your eyes and just breathe, concentrate on your breath and on how it moves in and out of your body.
At first, it might be hard to keep your focus, and that’s normal.
Your mind is not used to being still but, with practice, you’ll find that meditation becomes easier and more rewarding.
And the best part? You can meditate for as long or as short as you want.
Even just five minutes can make a huge difference in how you feel and how you approach the rest of your evening.
Meditation is about being present, being aware, and being kind to yourself.
2) Reading a good book
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been an avid reader.
Books have always been my escape, my refuge from the real world.
They take me to places I’ve never been and introduce me to characters I’ve never met.
One of my most treasured evening rituals is curling up on my couch with a good book.
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of the pages and the way the words dance around in your head, creating vivid images and evoking intense emotions.
In fact, just last week I finished reading ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho.
The story is beautiful and thought-provoking, and it made me ponder life’s bigger questions while also being a thoroughly enjoyable read.
This evening ritual doesn’t just provide entertainment but also offers a chance to learn something new and gain fresh perspectives.
3) Cooking a meal from scratch
Cooking is one of those activities that requires your full attention.
You have to measure the ingredients, follow the recipe, and keep an eye on the stove to make sure nothing burns.
It’s a process that engages all your senses, making it a great way to unwind and relax after a long day.
But here’s something you might not have realized: Cooking at home is linked to healthier overall diet and lifestyle.
People who cook at home consume fewer calories, less sugar, and less fat than those who eat out more frequently.
Not only does cooking provide a screen-free activity, but it also encourages healthier eating habits.
From trying out new recipes to perfecting your grandma’s secret sauce, cooking can be a fun and rewarding part of your evening routine.
4) Going for a walk
It’s easy to underestimate the power of a simple walk.
Believe me, it can be an incredible way to clear your mind and reset your mood.
There’s something about being out in the open air, feeling the cool breeze on your face, and hearing the sounds of nature that brings a sense of calm and tranquility.
Walking doesn’t require any special equipment or preparation.
Just put on a pair of comfortable shoes and head out.
You can go to a nearby park, walk around your neighborhood, or even just pace around your backyard.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not turn your walk into an exploration?
Discover new routes, admire the architecture in your area, or watch the sunset.
Each walk can be a new journey, a new story.
Remember, it’s about taking some time for yourself, appreciating the moment, and enjoying the simple pleasure of moving one foot in front of the other.
5) Journaling
I have to admit, I was skeptical about journaling when I first started; I mean, who has the time to sit down and write every day, right?
Once I got into the habit, I found it to be incredibly therapeutic.
It’s a safe space for me to express my thoughts, vent my frustrations, and celebrate my victories.
I typically write in my journal right before bed. It’s a way for me to unload everything that happened during the day, so I don’t carry it with me into my sleep.
Some days, I write pages and pages.
Other times, it’s just a couple of sentences.
There are no rules, no expectations—it’s just me and my thoughts.
Journaling has not only helped me understand myself better but also made me more mindful of my feelings and reactions.
6) Doing absolutely nothing
Yes, you read that right. One of the most relaxing things you can do is, well, nothing at all.
In our fast-paced society, we’re often made to feel guilty for not being productive all the time.
The truth is, it’s perfectly fine to have moments where you’re not doing anything.
Give yourself permission to just be: Lie on your couch, stare at the ceiling, let your mind wander.
It’s a rare opportunity to just exist without any expectations or pressures.
This might seem like a waste of time, but it’s actually a form of rest that can be incredibly rejuvenating.
It gives your mind a much-needed break, allowing it to recharge and reset.
7) Creating art
Art is a beautiful form of self-expression; it’s a way to communicate your thoughts, feelings, and ideas without having to use words.
You don’t have to be Picasso to create art.
In fact, you don’t even need any special equipment—all you need is some paper and a pen or pencil.
Sketch, doodle, paint, or even make a collage out of old magazines.
The medium doesn’t matter as much as the process itself!
Creating art allows you to tap into your imagination and creativity.
It’s a soothing activity that can help you unwind and de-stress.
Plus, at the end of it all, you’ll have something tangible to look at—a visual representation of your thoughts and feelings.
8) Practicing mindfulness
The most valuable thing you can give yourself is the gift of presence.
Being fully in the moment, without any distractions, can bring a sense of peace and calm that’s hard to find in our busy lives.
Mindfulness doesn’t require any special equipment or skills.
All you need is yourself and your willingness to be present.
You can practice mindfulness while doing any of the activities mentioned above—while walking, cooking, reading, or even doing nothing at all.
It’s not about emptying your mind, but rather about paying attention to what’s happening right here, right now; it’s about noticing the sensations in your body, the thoughts in your mind, and the world around you.
Practicing mindfulness can help you reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and enhance your overall well-being.
Isn’t that what we’re all looking for at the end of the day? A chance to relax, to unwind, and to just be.
Wrapping up
If you’ve made it this far, hopefully you’ve come to realize that the essence of an evening well spent isn’t always about being productive or staying connected.
Sometimes, it’s about doing the exact opposite.
Disconnecting from the digital world, embracing simplicity, and being present in the moment can open doors to a kind of relaxation and peace that’s hard to find amidst our busy lives.
Try one of these activities, or better yet, try them all over the next few evenings.
You may find a new favorite way to unwind, or you may simply enjoy the break from screen time.
Either way, remember that your value does not lie in how much you do, but in how present you are in what you choose to do.
Sometimes, the best thing you can choose to do is nothing at all!
