Mumbai: Stresslaxing is a term that combines ‘stress’ and ‘relaxing,’ describing a situation where attempts to unwind end up causing more stress. Individuals often feel pressured to relax or guilty about not being productive while trying to take it easy, leading to increased anxiety instead of the desired relaxation. Ironically, the harder you try to relax, the more stressed you become.
In today’s fast-paced world, where relaxation is often viewed as a productivity challenge, many individuals experience heightened anxiety when trying to unwind. This complex issue arises from multiple sources, including denial of stress, societal pressures, and internal dynamics. Understanding the roots of stresslaxing and its impact on health can offer insights into managing this modern dilemma.
Causes of stresslaxing
Viewing relaxation as unproductive: In a society that emphasises productivity, individuals feel pressured to maintain a relentless pace, often viewing relaxation as unproductive. This perception fosters guilt and stress, turning efforts to unwind into sources of anxiety. The relentless pursuit of achievement can paradoxically undermine the goal of relaxation, creating a cycle where the desire to unwind becomes a stressful endeavour. Viewing relaxation as an obligation rather than essential self-care can heighten stress levels. Addressing underlying stressors is crucial for genuine relaxation and overall well-being, promoting healthier coping strategies.
To avoid negative thoughts: Along a different line, some people may need to stay busy because subconsciously, being calm, having space, and experiencing ease may give rise to negative thoughts or memories of traumatic experiences.
No boundary between work and leisure time: External pressures, such as work, study, family, and other commitments, can make people feel like they are constantly ‘switched on’ to the outside world and are at the beck and call of others. They can then feel obligated to meet the demands of these outside influences, and as such, this can lead to a perception that they are not allowed to have any downtime or a space to relax that is just for themselves. For them, work time and leisure time no longer have definitive boundaries.
Internal dynamics: It affects the ability to relax including feeling the drive to keep active and not giving oneself permission to slow down and relax. Sometimes people worry that if they are relaxed, they will be bored or by slowing down and relaxing, there can be a fear that they will need to focus too much on the thoughts or feelings going on inside them.
Furthermore, technology, access, and other modern conveniences have blurred the lines of work and play, leading to ‘weisure,’ the merging of work and leisure activities.
Adverse impacts of stresslaxing on health
It leads to chronic stress which has been connected to high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes, fatigue, ulcers, headaches, backaches, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.
Surge in depression and anxiety.
Hampers social, relational, and interpersonal aspects when one doesn’t permit oneself time to relax.
The inability to fully switch off and relax can cause the nervous system to remain in a heightened state of stimulation, leading to feelings of agitation, tension, and anxiety.
Coping mechanisms to help you relax
Triggering the relaxation response can be done through visualisation, muscle relaxation, massage, breathing exercises, meditation, prayer, and yoga.
Establish clear boundaries between work and home life.
Consider shutting down technology early each night.
Prioritise self-care and learn to manage it daily.
Try the Benson Relaxation Method: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, relax all muscles from your feet to your head, and breathe slowly for 20 minutes. Start with 5 minutes if it feels challenging, and gradually increase the time.
Create a ‘done’ list to reflect on your accomplishments. This helps shift focus from future tasks to the present, celebrating completed chores and encouraging relaxation.
Engage in 5-minute meditation sessions. Research indicates that even brief periods of deep breathing and quiet can boost mental and physical well-being. For longer sessions, use a guided meditation app, or simply rest, nap, or enjoy solitude.
Ground yourself with the ‘5,4,3,2,1 Technique’ to reduce anxiety and enhance relaxation. Identify 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
Addressing stresslaxing involves recognising the root causes and implementing effective coping strategies. By acknowledging stress, setting realistic relaxation goals, and practicing mindful techniques, individuals can break the cycle of stresslaxing.
This approach not only enhances relaxation but also supports overall mental and physical health. Embracing these strategies can help restore balance, reduce anxiety, and foster a more genuine sense of calm.
Are you stresslaxing? This phenomenon, where efforts to relax lead to increased stress, is a growing concern. It stems from various factors, including denial of stress, societal pressure for constant productivity, and internal dynamics. These issues can lead to heightened anxiety and health problems. Understanding the causes and impacts of stresslaxing, as well as exploring effective coping mechanisms, can help mitigate its adverse effects. Fitness Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
