Rest and relaxation is important, but that doesn’t mean some of the things you do in the name of unwinding are actually good for you.
In fact, there are some things that might make you feel chill in the moment, but they inevitably come back to bite you in the long run. Here are just a few of the “relaxing” activities you may want to think twice about indulging in too often. (Then again, you could just live a little and go for it anyway!)
1. Binge-watching TV shows can mess with your sleep.
It’s easy to get lost in a show and suddenly realise it’s 2 a.m. But all that screen time—especially before bed—can mess up your sleep cycle. You might think you’re relaxing, but it could leave you tired and groggy the next day. Plus, those cliffhangers can keep your mind buzzing long after the credits roll.
2. Taking long baths can dry out your skin.
While soaking in a hot bath feels like the ultimate treat, staying in too long can strip your skin of its natural oils. This leaves you feeling dry and irritated. If you love your bath time, try using warm water and adding a moisturising bath oil to keep your skin hydrated.
3. Listening to loud music can damage your hearing.
Cranking up your favourite tunes can feel great, but blasting loud music through your headphones regularly can lead to long-term hearing damage. The problem is, you don’t notice the impact until it’s too late. So, keep the volume at a reasonable level, and give your ears a break.
4. Napping too long can make you groggy.
A quick 20-minute nap can recharge you, but anything longer might leave you feeling even more tired and disoriented. Your body starts slipping into deeper sleep stages, and waking up mid-cycle can make it harder to feel refreshed. Set an alarm, and keep those naps short and sweet.
5. Constant scrolling on social media can increase anxiety.
It’s easy to zone out on social media, but mindlessly scrolling can actually raise your stress levels, especially when you start comparing your life to other people’s highlight reels. Instead of feeling relaxed, you end up more anxious, so it’s a good idea to limit your scrolling time.
6. Drinking too much herbal tea can irritate your stomach.
Herbal teas are generally relaxing, but drinking too much of certain varieties—like peppermint or chamomile—can upset your stomach. Some herbs can interfere with medications, too. Enjoy your tea, but make sure to check what’s in your brew, and don’t go overboard.
7. Meditation apps can be overwhelming.
While meditation is amazing for relaxation, using too many apps or getting caught up in doing it “right” can add more stress than it’s worth. Sometimes simplicity is key, so try sticking to a basic routine that feels natural rather than forcing it.
8. Sleeping in can mess with your routine.
A lie-in feels like heaven, but sleeping too late can throw your body clock off balance. It makes it harder to get up on time during the week, and you end up feeling sluggish. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, to keep your energy steady.
9. Overeating comfort food can lead to sluggishness.
We all turn to comfort food now and then, but eating too much can leave you feeling bloated and tired. That sugar or carb rush fades fast, and you’re left with low energy. Balance your indulgences with healthier options, so you don’t feel weighed down.
10. Sitting still for too long can cause stiffness.
Lounging on the couch all day might sound perfect, but sitting in one spot for hours can stiffen your muscles and joints. You don’t need to run a marathon, but getting up and moving around once in a while can keep your body from feeling sore later.
11. Long massages can cause muscle soreness.
Massages are supposed to help you relax, but if they’re too intense or go on too long, you might feel sore afterward. A little pressure is good, but make sure your therapist knows your limits so you don’t walk away feeling worse.
12. Reading in bed can hurt your posture.
Curling up with a book before bed sounds peaceful, but if you’re hunched over in a weird position, it can mess with your neck and back. Try propping yourself up with pillows or reading in a chair to save yourself from the discomfort.
13. Using scented candles too often can affect indoor air quality.
Scented candles create a cosy atmosphere, but burning them too frequently can release chemicals that aren’t great for your lungs. Opt for natural soy candles or open a window now and then to keep the air fresh.
14. Drinking wine to unwind can disrupt your sleep.
Sure, a glass of wine feels like a good way to unwind, but alcohol can mess with your sleep quality, even if it helps you doze off faster. You might wake up in the middle of the night or feel less rested in the morning, so consider other ways to relax before bed.
