When's the last time you sat still without reaching for your phone?

It’s a quick, unconscious habit most of us do without a second thought, and part of the reason your nervous system could be struggling to “turn-off.” National Relaxation Day (August 15, 2026) is the perfect excuse to do something about it.

But first, let’s get into the ‘why’ decreasing your screentime can benefit your health.

Help Your Nervous System Clock Out

Even when you're "relaxing" on the couch, if your phone's within reach, your nervous system probably isn't. Every notification and scroll keeps your body in a low simmer of alert, never quite reaching real rest. It's not just a feeling, either — a study published in BMC Medicine found that people who spend five or more hours a day on their phones are 71% more likely to experience anxiety or depression.

Staying constantly connected could be the reason why you’re not able to feel completely rested. Making a conscious effort to reduce screen time is the first step to disconnecting.

Small Habits Matter

Not everyone can completely ‘ditch’ the phone (as much as you’d probably like to), so try setting some boundaries with your screen time by introducing other, new habits instead. Consider trying these things out this month and reflect on how you feel afterwards.

• Leave your phone in another room during at least one meal a day
• Trade your evening scroll for reading a tangible book, or journaling
• Take a quiet walk without a podcast or playlist to allow your brain to wander
• Set a phone-free hour each evening to give your nervous system room to downshift

Giving Your Body a Physical Reset

Putting the phone down is a start, but your body may need more assistance fully letting go. That's where massage and self-care come in. One of the most effective ways to physically interrupt the stress response looks like easing tension in your muscles, allowing nervous system full permission to rest screen-free.

This #NationalRelaxationDay, remember to allow yourself the feeling of letting go. Book a session at MassageLuXe and give your body (and your phone) a break.

About MassageLuXe

Founded in 2008 in St. Louis, Missouri, MassageLuXe is a fast-growing franchise-based spa company with a mission to provide an unparalleled experience that supports and encourages health, well-being, and quality of life. MassageLuXe delivers the highest quality massage, facial, and waxing services in a comfortable, relaxing, and luxurious environment.

Massage is a service that improves health, promotes relaxation and overall well-being for the consumer, and has been practiced throughout the world for thousands of years. MassageLuXe currently has over 100 locations across 22 states and is planning to double in size in the next three years.