Ever tried to take a break, but couldn’t stop the feeling that you should be working, which only results in more stress? Well, I found the perfect word to describe this feeling: stresslaxing.
As defined in the Urban Dictionary, stresslaxing is “being so stressed that relaxing makes you more stressed because you’re not working on what’s making you stressed.”
Sound familiar? If so, you know how annoying it can be. After all, we take breaks to step away from work and to prevent future burnout. However, we can’t do that if our body and mind refuse to rest.
No one wants to feel skittish or antsy while trying to relax, so how do we scratch that annoying itch?
First, it’s important to know where exactly this stress is coming from. Usually, the reason behind why we can’t seem to relax is due to feelings of anxiety, worry or being overwhelmed. Therefore, resulting in feelings of guilt for taking time off.
Essentially, identifying the source may help you find the right solution for you.
Here are some tips on how to stop stresslaxing:
- Do What works for you
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When we think of activities to do when we are stressed, what usually comes to mind are activities such as meditation or exercise. While those activities are great ways to destress, it’s important to realize that those aren’t your only options. Maybe calling friends or family, watching a movie or even consulting an app may be more helpful to you.
It’s important to listen to our bodies and ask ourselves, “what do I need right now?”
- Write your stresses away
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Writing in a journal is a great way to reflect and make some eye-opening revelations about yourself. Writing about your stress may help you get a clearer idea of what’s causing it. Additionally, it’s a great way to express those feelings onto paper than keeping it locked up inside.
- plan a break in your schedule
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To address those feelings of guilt, it may help to just schedule a break into your schedule. Be specific about what you will be doing and how long it will last. For example, schedule a movie you’ve been dying to watch or even a pamper session.
Essentially, it may help to minimize the number of decisions you need to make when it comes to what you’re going to do to relax and when you should do it. Additionally, by putting it into your schedule, you know that you still have time to do what needs to be done that day.
- Remind yourself why you’re taking a break
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It’s important to remember why we take breaks in the first place. Are we tired? Do we feel a burnout coming? Do we feel sick?
Most of us know that taking time off to relax is important for both physical and mental well-being. If we keep this reminder in the back of our head, it may help alleviate that feeling of guilt while trying to relax. After all, our health is very important!