Therapy in a Nutshell cover image

Therapy in a Nutshell

Does Relaxing Make You Anxious?

May 25, 2023
13:11

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Relaxation-induced anxiety is common among individuals with depression or anxiety, often stemming from trauma or a habitual tension in the body.
  • Highly sensitive individuals may struggle to relax due to a protective shield of worry, exacerbated by societal pressure for constant productivity.

Deep dives

Reasons for Relaxation-Induced Anxiety

Relaxation-induced anxiety is common, particularly for those with depression or anxiety. Trauma can lead to a habitual tension in the body, causing relaxation to feel unsafe and vulnerable. Highly sensitive individuals may carry worry as a protective shield against intense emotions, making it uncomfortable to let go and relax. Western society's emphasis on productivity can create feelings of guilt and inadequacy when relaxing. Scarcity mindset and constant busyness can lead to a fear of relaxing and feeling unsafe. Practicing non-striving and observing in meditation can prevent forcing the mind or body to relax. The familiarity of being busy can make relaxation feel foreign, but creating space and practicing relaxation can help. Avoiding problem-solving or distractions may cause anxiety when attempting to relax. Executive function difficulties, especially in those with ADHD, can make it harder to direct attention to relaxation.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode