When it comes to winding down and finding that sweet escape from the busyness of life, there are countless activities that promise relaxation. But let’s face it, not everything that glitters is gold. Actually, there are plenty of activities that, despite their chill facade, can turn into a stress fest real quick.
For some, it’s video games; for others, it’s doing home renovations, maybe even reading comics, mangas, or a visual novel. But overall, relaxation needs to be a time to actually relax, to let go, not get that adrenaline pumping. So, let’s go ahead and dive right into the list of what seems to be relaxing, but in reality, they’re actually not!
Video Games are The Double-Edged Sword of Relaxation
Honestly, video games are the ultimate paradox. On the one hand, they offer immersive worlds where you can escape reality and become a hero, explorer, mayor of a village (like Animal Crossing), or even a farmer. On the other hand, they can turn into a nightmare of stress and frustration.
Basically, not all games are created equally, even when it comes to cozy games, so games that are meant to be cozy sometimes can spike the adrenaline. For example, puzzles with a time limit, but of course so, puzzle games like Mahjong are known for being calm and slow-paced. But not all games aren’t entirely equal; let’s break down some major culprits that can make gaming feel super stressful (no matter how entertained you are).
First-Person Shooters
These games promise adrenaline-pumping action and the thrill of victory. But let’s be honest, they’re more likely to give you heart palpitations. The intense focus required, the quick reflexes needed, and the constant threat of being outgunned by a 12-year-old in another time zone can be anything but relaxing.
Fighting Games
The premise is simple: two fighters, one winner. The reality? Button mashing, complex combos, and the crushing defeat of being KO’d seconds after the match starts. Add in the pressure of multiplayer rankings, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for stress.
Online Multiplayer Games
Games like “League of Legends” or “Overwatch” might seem like a great way to bond with friends, but they often turn into arenas of stress. Team coordination, toxic players, and the pressure to perform can make these games more stressful than any day job.
Yoga is Basically the Stress of Stretching
Have you ever watched that episode of King of the Hill where Hank has to take yoga classes in order to fix his back? He wasn’t very relaxed during any of that, right? Well, yoga is often touted as the ultimate relaxation exercise. Soft mats, calming music, and gentle stretches. Sounds perfect, right? Wrong. So, let’s take a close look at why:
The Silent Competition
Even in the most serene of studios, there’s always that one person who can bend like a pretzel while you struggle to touch your toes (again that King of the Hill episode is a perfect example). Bascially, the silent competition can make you feel inadequate and stressed about your progress.
The Impossible Poses
Not everyone is built to do a headstand or wrap their leg around their neck. Pushing yourself into these poses can lead to frustration and even injury, making your yoga session anything but relaxing.
The Mind Wandering Dilemma
Yoga instructors often tell you to clear your mind and focus on your breath. But that’s way easier said than done, right? Your mind might wander to your grocery list, your work deadlines, or that awkward thing you said five years ago. Instead of feeling zen, you’re more stressed than before.
Watching TV (Sometimes)
Binge-watching your favorite show seems like the perfect way to relax. But let’s not kid ourselves; it’s a trap. Alright, well sometimes it is, not that it’s a bad thing, but just be aware that sometimes it can get the adrenaline pumping.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Whether it’s a drama, thriller, or even a sitcom, getting invested in characters and plotlines can be emotionally draining. Besides, you can’t forget about the cliffhangers, and plot twists can leave you feeling more anxious than entertained.
The Guilt Trip
After a six-hour binge, the realization hits: you’ve wasted half a day. The guilt and self-reproach can overshadow any relaxation you might have felt. But maybe you had a free day, and this is what you wanted to do; in that case, who cares if you spent half your day on it?
The Eye Strain
This isn’t mental stress; it’s more about physical stress, and technically, this goes for anything that involves a screen. Staring at a screen for hours can lead to headaches, dry eyes, and general discomfort. So, while your brain might be entertained, your body is screaming for a break.
Cooking Has It’s Stressors
Cooking is often hailed as a therapeutic activity; most of those YouTubers (or Martha Stewart) make it seem relaxing. Basically, shows about competition or staring Gordon Ramsey seem to be the only ones where cooking is stressful. Now sure, if you’re cooking a 5-course meal, then of course it’s stressful. It’s stressful for everyone. But regardless, when there’s pressure to cook a fine meal, it’s stressful.
There’s the Mess
The chopping, mixing, and sautéing can leave your kitchen looking like a tornado hit it. The cleanup alone can be a major source of stress. But again, usually if you’re having guests over.
The Pressure to Perfect
Trying out new recipes or cooking for guests comes with the pressure to get everything just right. One wrong move and your perfect meal turns into a culinary disaster (unless you’ve been cooking for years and already know a quick fix).
Don’t Forget the Timing Juggle
Coordinating multiple dishes to be ready at the same time is like conducting a symphony. One misstep and you’re left with cold mains and burnt sides. Not exactly relaxing.
Gardening
Another King of the Hill reference because why not? Well, Hank (and all the other characters) find a lot of peace and happiness when they work on their lawn. Actually, there was an episode about Hank’s lawn going bad (thanks to Dale), and it caused Hank a lot of stress. So, with that all said, gardening is supposed to be a peaceful hobby that connects you with nature. But the reality can be far from a zen experience (well, sometimes).
The Backbreaking Labor
Just think about it for just a second; you have all that digging, planting, weeding, and watering, which can be physically demanding. The aches and pains that follow a day in the garden are anything but relaxing.
The Battle with Pests
Just when you think your garden is flourishing, pests invade. Dealing with bugs, rodents, and plant diseases can turn your peaceful garden into a battlefield.
The Unpredictable Weather
You really have to keep in mind that Mother Nature is fickle. Too much rain, not enough sun, and unexpected frost can all ruin your hard work and leave you stressed about the fate of your plants.
Travel is Like a Stressful Getaway
This is probably obvious; you’ve seen it on the news, you’ve heard loved ones complain about it, depicted plenty of times on TV, and of course, there’s your own experience with it, too. Basically, traveling is often marketed as the ultimate relaxation activity. But the reality of getting from point A to point B can be a stress-inducing nightmare. Sometimes, being in Point B can be stressful, too!
The Planning Overload
Now, yes, this is exciting, but at the same time, from booking flights and accommodations to planning itineraries, the amount of preparation needed can be overwhelming. Again, it’s exciting, but just a lot of logistics that go into it.
The Airport Hassle
This honestly doesn’t even need an explanation, but just in case; long lines, security checks, delayed flights, and lost luggage – airports are a hotbed of stress.
The Unfamiliar Territory
Navigating a new place, dealing with language barriers, and the fear of getting lost can make travel more stressful than staying at home. But of course, being in unfamiliar territory is what makes this so fun and special, too!
