Long shifts, packed emergency rooms and tough commutes are daily realities for nurses, ER doctors and techs at LA hospitals. Burnout is common, yet building simple daily habits can help you protect your mental health. These seven wellness practices are proven favorites among LA healthcare workers who need a mental reset.
Why Healthcare Workers Need Intentional Mental Resets
Demanding schedules and frequent overtime put real strain on teams. A study examining 70 hospitals nationwide from 2019 to 2022 found that overtime negatively affects patient safety.
Relying on overtime is also unsustainable for staff. As overtime levels approach 10% in hospitals, nurse burnout increases, and the risk of mistakes rises. That’s why taking time for a mental reset is essential for staying sharp and delivering safe, effective patient care.
7 Easy Habits to Help You Unwind
These seven habits can fit around busy shifts and may help you reset mentally. Pick the ones that suit you.
- Take a Trail Walk
A short walk or hike can serve as a gentle reset, whether you stay near your workplace or head to a park on the way home. Explore parks like Elysian Park, where you can enjoy scenic trails and overlooks, such as Angel’s Point and Buena Vista Overlook. Leave your phone in your pocket and soak in the views.
- Catch a Sunset at the Beach
A quick beach visit before an early shift or after a late one can be an easy way to slow down, especially if you work near the coast. Venice Beach and Will Rogers State Beach are good stops. Bring your favorite drink or a trusted friend while enjoying the sunset views.
- Book a Float Therapy Session to Quiet Your Mind
Float therapy means lying effortlessly on your back in a shallow pool, pod or room. It’s popular among student-athletes looking to boost their performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Studios in Frogtown and West Hollywood offer sessions, so it’s worth trying if you want a unique way to reset your mind.
- Build a Protected Decompression Ritual After Your Shift
Long clinical shifts and unplanned overtime can blur the line between the hospital floor and home. A predictable routine can mark the end of your shift in your own mind. Change out of your uniform as soon as you step inside, then spend several minutes on a pen-and-paper brain dump.
- Try a Cold Plunge
You’ll find cold plunge studios and recovery spots across LA. This wellness practice may help reduce stress and improve focus, although you should avoid water below 40° Fahrenheit and keep sessions to five minutes or less.
- Stretch It Out With Outdoor Yoga
Outdoor yoga offers a simple way to move and reset across LA. Gentle poses can help relax your body and prepare you for restful sleep. Roll out a mat at a park, beach or studio rooftop and choose what suits you.
- Lean on Your Work Family for Support
Debriefing with colleagues who understand the clinical floor can be a welcome relief after a tough shift. Set up a buddy system with one or two co-workers from your unit for a short check-in over coffee or in the staff parking structure. Keep these chats judgment-free, focused on listening, acknowledging stress and leaving the day behind.
Start With One Small Habit This Week
A reset can fit into even the busiest schedule with just a small, simple step. These LA-accessible habits show how little changes may make your days feel lighter. Pick one this week, whether it’s a trail walk, a sunset or a quick debrief with a co-worker and see how it makes you feel.
