Stresslaxing' Reality: Why Do Some People Find It So Hard To Relax?

In cases where de-stressing ends up adding more stress to a person's life, this person could end up feeling "stresslaxed."

This counterproductive feeling could end up fostering a cycle of heightened worry and anxiety.

Stresslaxation

According to Dr. Michael Schirripa, a podcast host, author, and psychiatrist, the term generally refers to the experience that people feel when they are in a stressed or anxious state as they try to calm down or feel more relaxed by taking a break. It generally refers to anxiety that is induced by relaxation.

The concept has been a subject of study for several years. In fact, one study says that around 30% to 50% of individuals experience stress when they try doing things that are relaxing. This feeling of stresslaxation ends up fueling stress due to how attempts to de-stress do not work.

Professor Deborah Serani, PsyD, from Adelphi University, noted that, based on research, individuals who struggle with overthinking or generalized anxiety have a higher vulnerability to stresslaxing. There is also evidence that shows that individuals who struggle with stresslaxation could also have panic attacks on top of their anxiety and stress.

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Forced Relaxation and the Brain

The brain resists forced relaxation in various ways. This is particularly the case for the amygdala, which constantly searches for danger. Dr. Schirripa noted that it is important to keep in mind that the brains are always on and are intricately designed for worry. Anxiety plays a crucial role in survival, as it informs individuals of potential threats and dangers.

Professor Serani also noted that individuals who battle with worry, ruminations, and anxiety experience hardships with cognitive control. This means that they may find it difficult to put some thoughts on hold.

Some individuals may also want to stay preoccupied, as having space and feeling at ease could give room for negative memories or thoughts to arise.

Why Some People Find Relaxation Hard

According to Dr. Schirripa, internal dynamics, and external pressures play a role in how some people may find it difficult to relax.

Some internal dynamics include feeling driven to stay active and not allowing oneself to relax and slow down. As for external pressures, these may include work, studies, and other commitments.

Chronic Stress

There are various health risks that have been associated with chronic stress. For one, chronic stress has been linked to high blood pressure, which could trigger strokes and heart attacks.

Moreover, according to Professor Serani, anxiety and depression may also surge.

Natalie Christine, PhD, a clinical psychologist, Harvard Medical School instructor, and founder of Priority Wellness, also noted that being unable to relax and switch off properly could end up resetting the nervous system, making it work at a level of overstimulation.

As time passes, this could make it even harder to have a response of relaxation.

Relaxation Strategies

There are some techniques that have been scientifically proven to aid with relaxation by increasing calmness or reducing anxiety.

For one, progressive muscle relaxation could help. This method generally involves tensing muscles while inhaling and releasing them quickly when exhaling.

A study discovered that doing progressive muscle relaxation for 20 minutes from Monday to Friday for half a year significantly reduced levels of cortisol, which is a known stress hormone.

Another great way to feel relaxed is to take deep breaths. This practice is one of the fastest ways to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

While there are several kinds of beneficial deep breathing, one scientifically supported method is known as SKY breathing. This method involves slowing breaths followed by fast breaths followed by "oms." This breathing method has been found to reduce anxiety.

Taking a cold dip in a river or ocean may also help. A study has discovered that spending 20 minutes in cold water could boost the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is generally linked to feeling relaxed.