Stop Using These 6 Unhealthy Ways to Relax—Here’s What to Do Instead

In our fast-paced world, it’s natural to seek ways to unwind. But not all relaxation methods are created equal. Some habits may feel soothing at the moment, but they could be draining your energy and adding to your stress in the long run. Below, we’ll explore six common unhealthy ways people try to relax—and provide healthier alternatives that truly help you recharge.

1. Scrolling Social Media for Hours

While it feels like a quick escape, endlessly scrolling through social media can leave you more anxious and disconnected. The constant flood of information keeps your brain overstimulated, and comparing yourself to others online may trigger stress rather than relieve it.

What to Do Instead: Try setting screen limits and opt for activities like journaling, reading, or spending time in nature. These offline activities provide mental clarity and foster deeper relaxation.

2. Overeating or Indulging in Junk Food

Food can be comforting, but emotional eating often leads to guilt, bloating, and fatigue. Junk food provides a quick dopamine rush but leaves you feeling worse afterward.

What to Do Instead: Practice mindful eating by savoring nutritious snacks like fruits, nuts, or dark chocolate. Cooking your own meals can also become a therapeutic activity, giving you a sense of accomplishment.

3. Binge-Watching TV Shows

We’ve all been there—just one more episode, and suddenly it’s 2 a.m. While watching TV can be enjoyable, long binge-watching sessions interfere with sleep, leaving you tired and groggy the next day.

What to Do Instead: Limit your screen time by setting a specific number of episodes to watch. Instead of zoning out in front of a screen, consider mixing in other relaxing activities, like light exercise or listening to podcasts.

4. Shopping as a Way to Cope with Stress

Retail therapy can feel rewarding in the moment, but impulse buying often leads to financial stress and regret later. Using shopping as an emotional crutch also prevents you from addressing the root cause of your stress.

What to Do Instead: When you feel the urge to shop, pause and ask yourself what emotion you’re trying to manage. Replace the habit with non-material rewards, like a relaxing bath, yoga, or connecting with a friend.

5. Drinking Alcohol or Overusing Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine offer short-term relief—whether it’s unwinding with a glass of wine or powering through exhaustion with coffee. But these substances disrupt your body’s natural rhythm, leading to poor sleep and dependence over time.

What to Do Instead: Switch to herbal teas or flavored water when you need a break. Engage in activities like stretching, deep breathing exercises, or meditation to manage stress and restore your energy naturally.

6. Procrastination Disguised as Relaxation

Telling yourself “I’ll rest for a bit and then start” can easily spiral into hours of procrastination. This form of relaxation brings only temporary relief, leaving you with unfinished tasks and more stress.

What to Do Instead: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and reward yourself with short breaks after each one. Active relaxation, like walking or meditating between tasks, can help you stay productive and refreshed.

Conclusion

Not all relaxation methods are beneficial—some can even backfire, adding stress instead of reducing it. Recognizing unhealthy habits is the first step toward change. By swapping these draining activities for mindful, meaningful practices, you’ll recharge your energy and improve your well-being.

Relaxation isn’t just about escaping stress—it’s about nurturing yourself. Try experimenting with different healthy ways to unwind, and notice how much better you feel. Remember, the key to lasting relaxation is to be intentional with your time and treat yourself with kindness.