You may not have encountered the term “stresslaxing” before, and honestly, I hadn’t either until recently. This somewhat ambiguous term refers to the phenomenon where the act of trying to relax can actually heighten your stress levels. It encapsulates the idea that downtime can exacerbate anxiety.
According to Urban Dictionary, stresslaxing occurs when you’re so overwhelmed that the effort to relax ends up causing more stress because you aren’t addressing the root of your worries. While the term is relatively new, the concept has been explored in various studies for some time. For instance, research published in the December 2018 edition of the Journal of Affective Disorders revealed that for some individuals, trying to relax can intensify fears and insecurities. The study found that people with generalized anxiety disorder particularly struggle with relaxation techniques, often experiencing heightened anxiety during these moments. Hanjoo Kim, a co-author of the study and a graduate student in psychology at Penn State University, noted that those most vulnerable to relaxation-induced anxiety tend to have anxiety disorders — and I can relate to this.
Living with panic disorder and anxiety disorder, I recognize the importance of self-care. However, when I attempt to unwind, my mind races. My emotions fluctuate, and I often feel overwhelmed. The stillness of relaxation unsettles me, and I can’t help but dwell on tasks left undone, whether it’s washing dishes or meeting deadlines.
When I seek relaxation, I often feel jittery and restless, experiencing physical symptoms like tremors. The inner critic grows louder, reminding me of my perceived inadequacies and past mistakes. Meditation, often touted as a remedy, has proven difficult for me; the very act of focusing on my breath can heighten my anxiety.
I’m not alone in this experience. Many share similar feelings. For example, a mother of two, Sarah Thompson, expressed her frustration with meditation, stating that it feels more like a chore than a calming practice. Similarly, Lisa Carter mentioned that the stillness of relaxation makes her feel agitated as if she can’t sit still.
Interestingly, “stresslaxing” seems more prevalent among women. In an informal survey, many female respondents reported feeling guilty for taking time to themselves, feeling pressure to always be productive. For instance, Maria Lopez shared that even without anxiety, she feels compelled to be constantly busy, a sentiment echoed by others who described how relaxation can spiral into guilt and increased anxiety.
Fortunately, there are alternative ways to unwind that can feel more purposeful. Activities like walking, cooking, or crafting can provide a sense of movement and accomplishment, helping to alleviate the guilt associated with relaxation. It’s important to choose activities that resonate with you personally rather than conforming to societal expectations. After all, “stresslaxing” is not true relaxation, and it’s crucial to reclaim our peace of mind.
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Summary: The concept of “stresslaxing” highlights how attempts to relax can lead to increased anxiety, particularly among those with anxiety disorders. Many individuals, especially women, experience guilt and restlessness when trying to unwind. Seeking alternative activities like walking or crafting can provide a more fulfilling form of relaxation, enabling individuals to reclaim their peace of mind.
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