Stress, screens, to-do lists — we are constantly preoccupied with something. And when we’ve finally tackled all tasks, it turns out that our mind … just refuses to unwind. Quite a frustrating feeling, isn’t it? Let’s see what can be done about it.
Why Can’t We Relax, and Why Is It So Important?
The key issue with stress is that it activates the sympathetic nervous system. It’s not exactly an issue because, in a way, it’s useful as it keeps us alert and thus safe. In the meantime, it doesn’t let us unwind. So if stress is chronic, it can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and even physical health issues.
To learn to relax means to learn to reset this system. You signal back to it that all is okay, nothing threatens you, and it is time to relax.
5 Tricks for When You Can’t Relax
Quick-Acting Supplements
Here, THC and CBD are of the biggest help. THC, specifically, can provide mild euphoria and relaxation. If you don’t want to eat or smoke it, shop THC beverages. These are tasty and fast-acting. Plus, they’re pretty discreet.
Vaping
Vapes, especially if these are CBD or THC vapes, offer a fast-acting relaxation, too. The compounds enter your bloodstream quickly this way. You can thus expect a sense of calm within minutes. Of course, that’s not as discrete as with THC drinks but if you turn to vaping as a post-work relaxation option, why not?
Challenge Your Thoughts
Sometimes, it’s not your body that’s resisting relaxation — it’s your mind. If that’s the case, you’ll find yourself overthinking or getting caught in negative thought loops. Your task in that scenario is to gently challenge those thoughts.
For instance, you’re stressed about an upcoming deadline. Have you already missed any deadlines? If not, what are the chances you will miss this one? When and why may it happen? What can you do to avoid it? What will happen if you still miss it? Show yourself that nothing horrible is likely to happen in any case.
Watch Funny Videos (Especially Animals!)
Laughter always works. Watch funny videos (especially those featuring animals) and you’ll immediately feel happier, at least, for a while. And when you are happier, you are more relaxed, too.
Aromatherapy
This may work with certain essential oils such as lavender or chamomile. They’ll stimulate smell receptors and the latter will send relaxing signals to the brain. Here are a few ideas for what this aromatherapy can look like:
- diffusing essential oils
- adding them to a bath
- using an aromatherapy spray on your pillow.
Be careful with the dosage, you need just a few drops for all of these.
Instead of Conclusion: 3 Things That NEVER Help to Relax
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Taking on New Tasks When You’re Already Overloaded
Adding more to your plate when you’re already overwhelmed won’t reduce stress (it will only increase it). When you feel compelled to say yes to everything, remember that setting boundaries can help you protect both your time and mental well-being. If you already have too many tasks to do, try to delegate at least some of those.
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Alcohol
Okay, initially, it makes you feel calm. However, it’s a temporary effect with a cost.
The worst thing about alcohol is that it interferes with sleep quality. In the morning, you are likely to find yourself anxious and in a bad mood. In a way, it makes you feel even more tired than you were.
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Sugar or Fast Food
When stressed, sugary and processed foods are so attractive. But that’s the same as with alcohol. You get a quick boost now and experience an energy crash later. That may sound boring but balanced meals with whole foods are much much better for energy and mood.
