I’ll be honest — I struggle to relax.
Even when I get a moment to breathe after a long day, my brain doesn’t. It’s constantly thinking about work problems, art ideas, things I forgot to do, or things that don’t even matter right now. My thoughts are always running. And the worst part? Even when I’m sleeping… it feels like I’m still thinking.
Sometimes, it’s not until my medication kicks in that I actually feel a sense of peace. Until then, I’m in overthinking mode — and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.
I wanted to write this blog post for people like me. For the ones who want to rest but can’t. For the ones who feel guilty slowing down, or don’t know how to switch off.
What Helps Me (Even Just a Little):
🎥 Feel-good movies:
I put on something light and comforting. Rom-coms, cozy animations, or feel-good classics help quiet the mental noise — at least long enough for me to breathe or drift off.
🎶 Comfort songs:
There are a few songs I keep in a playlist just for these moments. They calm me, ground me, and sometimes even help me cry if I need to.
📚 Feel-good books:
Sometimes I can totally zone out by reading a cozy romance or a light mystery. It gives my brain something calming (but engaging) to focus on without spiraling into stress. Books are a safe escape when my thoughts are too loud.
😴 Unplanned naps:
I absolutely cherish those naps where you just accidentally fall asleep — and wake up hours later feeling like your body finally let go. It’s rare, but when it happens? It’s everything.
📝 Brain dumps:
Before bed, I try to write down everything in my head. No structure. Just messily getting it all out so I’m not carrying it into my dreams.
🐾 Pet cuddles:
If you have a pet, you already know. Snuggling with them is calming in a way nothing else is. They don’t ask questions or need explanations. They just are.
🕯️ Soft night rituals:
I’ve been working on building a gentle wind-down routine. Dim lights, soft music, comfy clothes — all signals that tell my brain: “You’re safe now.”
🫶 I Talk About It (Even Just to Yourself or my Pets ( They dont judge)
Getting the thoughts out of your head and into the open (even through voice notes) can bring unexpected relief.
Sometimes I talk to myself out loud — just to process the day. Other times I’ll message a friend, even just to say, “I’m overwhelmed and can’t stop thinking.”
Final Thoughts:
And if your mind is still racing even after trying all the things? That’s okay too. You’re human.
You don’t need to meditate perfectly. You don’t have to sit still for an hour in a bubble bath with spa music playing. Relaxing doesn’t have to look like an Instagram post.
The key is intention. Showing up for yourself — even in small ways — is enough.
And if your mind is still racing even after trying all the things? That’s okay too. You’re human.
Be gentle with yourself. One day at a time.
This blog is based on my personal experience with anxiety and the use of medication. I am not a medical professional. If racing thoughts or sleep issues are disrupting your daily life, please reach out to a licensed therapist or mental health provider. You deserve support — and you’re not alone. 💛
Want to share what helps you unwind? Comment below or DM me on Instagram @shopabbyscreativeescape — let’s build a list of calming tools together 💛
