“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax” – Mark Black
Yet, how do you explain when your need to relax is accompanied by a nagging sense of guilt?
Throughout the week, our thoughts often gravitate toward the approaching weekend, or we eagerly anticipate the holidays that loom on the horizon. The weekend finally comes and instead of resting, your mind is bullied with unfinished tasks. The more you think of things to add to your to-do list the more your heart rate increases.
Guess what is happening; you are Stresslaxing!
Deborah Serani, a professor, and author of Living with Depression defines Stresslaxing as relaxation-induced anxiety.
Research suggests that if you already struggle with generalized anxiety or overthinking, you may be more prone to stresslaxing. Other evidence says individuals with stress laxing struggles may also experience panic attacks in addition to their stress and anxiety. And then others may become depressed because they can’t relax freely.
With the work-focused attitudes of today’s culture, it can be easy to associate our productivity with our self-worth, compelling us to feel the need to justify ourselves when we take a moment to rest elaborately. If you’ve ever experienced this, rest assured, you are not alone.
To feel good about oneself, relaxation is essential. One can attain it by letting go of guilt, engaging in self-care activities like yoga, walks, or grounding exercises, and practicing mindfulness and grounding exercises. When we consciously set aside time for relaxation, we can use it as a productive tool to maximize our potential and change our mindset from seeing it as a barrier to achievement.
“Chronic stress can increase a number of health risks, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.
Don’t be Stresslaxed!
