Unless you’re lucky enough to live within striking distance of your office, chances are the commute is a time-consuming and tedious aspect of your week. Whether you’re crowded on a train or sitting in traffic in your car, it can seem like you can’t do anything but wait to reach your destination.
However, there are ways to make use of these hours in ways that will set you up for the day or help you unwind when travelling home.
- Audio entertainment
Just because you can’t hold a book in your hands doesn’t mean you can’t read! Embrace audiobooks and listen to trained actors reading out the latest works from your favourite authors.
Whether you love novels which explore fantasy worlds or want to dive into new non-fiction, you’ll find a wide choice of audiobooks available to buy or rent through subscription providers or your local library.
Alternatively, join the growing trend for podcasts and listen to expert discussions on your interests or download comedy and panel shows originally aired on the radio. Most streaming services have a podcast portal built in.
- Mindfulness exercises
If you don’t have to have your hands on the wheel, use the time to practice mindfulness exercises to bolster your mental wellness and reduce your stress levels pre- and post-work.
Apps like Headspace and Calm have interactive activities like quizzes to provide insight into how you’re feeling and guide you to better living habits. They also have recorded talks from mental health experts, articles on popular related topics, and meditation and yoga tutorials.
- Mobile games
Bring enjoyment to your commute with simple mobile games you can access through apps on your smartphone. This is a low-effort way to relieve boredom and take your mind to leisure time after a busy day at the office.
You can opt for fast-paced games of luck like roulette and other casino games or rounds of bingo if you want something light and fun, or stretch your brain with challenging puzzles such as sudoku and crosswords.
Alternatively, explore a fantasy world as a character taking on exciting quests, or race against others and the clock around a track filled with surprise obstacles.
- Fitness exercises
Do you spend most of your commute sitting? Banish any embarrassment and take the opportunity to stay fit with small exercises and stretches you can do in a chair.
Release tension in the neck and upper body with shoulder shrugs, head turns and nodding dogs. Experiment with gentle calf stretches and seated leg raises to promote good circulation and safeguard against stiffness and cramping.
