Relaxing isn’t always easy and can be daunting to some. In fact, a study showed that participants were so uncomfortable doing nothing that many preferred to give themselves small electric shocks instead.

Some researchers think it’s tough to downshift into relaxation mode each day because many of us aren’t accustomed to sitting and solely thinking without then putting those thoughts into action. They use a term called “relaxation anxiety” or “relaxation sensitivity” to pinpoint those feelings of discomfort, boredom or unease for some when they attempt to slow down. 

For too many of us, guilt is the kneejerk reaction when we try to do a relaxing activity like reading a book. It instigates that feeling that we “should be doing something” and emphasizes that being productive is better than rest.

But rest and relaxation are completely necessary for overall wellbeing. Routine restorative rest can boost overall health, quality of life and even longevity. Here are some ideas to fortify your most important asset this holiday season — your health.

Try an activity-centered form of relaxation.

Pick any activity you find enjoyable that has a single focus, allowing you to toss distractions aside. Some examples include writing in a journal, reading alone or to your kids, cooking, walking, playing music, creating art, etc.

Prevent polluted time by creating boundaries.

When to-do lists, kids’ needs or work emails creep into your relaxation time, that becomes “polluted time” and decreases relaxation benefits significantly. Keep your free time free by adding a line to your work email about your working hours, sharing this information with family and friends, or posting your own sticky note reminder about your working hours. When the shop is closed, it’s closed. This holiday season, you can also do a quick energy check-in with yourself before you reply “yes” to an invite.

Release trapped stress in your body.

Stress often presents itself physically before we notice it. Simply relaxing our bodies can help us downshift into a relaxation activity to reap the benefits successfully. Try tensing then releasing muscles around your body to free trapped stress. You might also try simple breathing exercises.

Breathing is key for relaxing effectively because the definition of relaxation simply means activating the parasympathetic nervous system (which handles bodily processes we don’t think about, like breathing) rather than using the sympathetic nervous system (which oversees our stress response).

Stop checking your phone.

Some experts call smartphones “adult pacifiers,” because phones are ultra-quick at relieving that uncomfortableness of doing nothing. For too many, checking our phones has become automatic and is no longer intentional. When it’s time to relax, try your best to avoid checking your phone unintentionally. Instead, consider sending a valued friend a quick message or try watching a funny video to alleviate a little stress from the day.

Reflect on the seven types of rest we need to thrive.

For a starting place, look at what forms of rest you have built into your daily routine currently. The forms range from physical rest to mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social and spiritual rest. Visit MotivateHealth.com for more ideas!

Sources:

“How to Stop Checking Your Phone Every 10 Seconds,” Jamie Ducharme, time.com, Sept. 25, 2024.

“Do Less. It’s Good for You,” Jamie Ducharme, time.com, June 10, 2024.

“How to Get Real Rest,” Donavyn Coffey, time.com, April 22, 2024.