Stress doesn’t always come from major life events. More often, it builds slowly through the small habits we repeat every day.

From how we sit at our desks to how often we check our phones, everyday routines can quietly keep the body in a constant state of tension. Over time, this can leave muscles tight, sleep disrupted, and the mind feeling overwhelmed.

The good news is that once you recognize these habits, it becomes easier to shift them and give your body the reset it deserves.

Below are a few common things many of us are doing right now that may be keeping our bodies stuck in stress mode.

1. Constantly Checking Your Phone

Many people reach for their phone dozens of times per hour without even realizing it. Notifications, emails, and social media updates keep the brain in a cycle of stimulation that can prevent the nervous system from fully relaxing.

This constant input signals the brain to stay alert rather than calm.

What helps:

• Setting “do not disturb” windows
• Taking short screen breaks throughout the day
• Giving your mind moments of quiet

Remember: It’s good to take breaks from being connected to everyone all the time. Allow yourself space to breathe.

2. Sitting for Long Periods Without Moving

Long hours at a desk may feel normal, but the body isn’t designed to remain in one position all day. Sitting for extended periods can cause muscles to tighten, circulation to slow, and posture to suffer.

Over time, this can lead to stiffness in the back, neck, and hips.

What helps:

• Standing up and stretching every hour (setting a timer helps!)
• Taking short walks during the day
• Practicing posture awareness

Working at a ‘desk job’ is no longer an excuse for poor blood circulation. Incorporating moments of movement throughout the day is going to be your next self-care challenge.  

3. Shallow Breathing Throughout the Day

When we’re stressed many of us unconsciously take short, shallow breaths. This type of breathing signals the body to remain in a heightened state of alertness.

Deep breathing, on the other hand, encourages the nervous system to shift into a calmer state.

What helps:

• Being proactive, practice short breathing before big meetings
• Downloading a breathing app with the ability to pace your breaths

Practices that encourage slower, deeper breathing can help signal to the body that it’s safe to relax and shift out of stress mode.

4. Skipping Time to Unwind

Busy schedules make it easy to move from one task to another without giving the body time to recover. When relaxation never becomes part of the routine, stress can accumulate in the body.

Making space for intentional rest helps reset both the mind and muscles.

What helps:

• Scheduling a rest day of the week just for self-care
• Creating evening routines optimized for relaxation
• Showing gratitude for your productivity and reminding yourself it’s okay to have an ‘off’ switch

Over time, building small moments of rest into your routine can help your body recharge and manage stress more effectively.

A Gentle Reminder During Stress Awareness Month

Stress is a natural part of life, but the body benefits from moments of recovery. Paying attention to small daily habits can make a meaningful difference in how your body feels over time.

If your muscles have been holding onto tension, taking time to relax and recharge can help restore balance. A massage can be one of the simplest ways to give your body that reset. Visit your local MassageLuXe spa to experience how regular relaxation can support your overall wellness.

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.

Whether you hope to start a family now or in the future, discussing fertility can be an uncomfortable and challenging conversation.  For many individuals and couples, the journey can bring both moments of hope and moments of challenge.

Recent studies of young couples in the United States trying for families reveal increased complications around reproductive health in comparison to past years. According to Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the U.S. fertility rate reached a record low in 2024 and is reportedly continuing a downhill decline. While more awareness about infertility is spreading on social media, we decided to join the conversation during #NationalInfertilityAwarenessMonth about the importance of nurturing yourself through the reproductive process.

Understanding the Emotional and Physical Impact

Experiencing fertility challenges can bring a wide range of emotions for both you and your partner. Feelings of hope, anticipation, frustration, and disappointment can come and go unexpectedly. Holding space for these emotions and creating compassion for one another can help you get through tough moments a little more prepared.

Resources online show that couples who experience fertility challenges in a joint manner vs. individually are more emotionally connected. Those who focus on open communication, stress management through shared activities, and setting boundaries with loved ones are understandably closer than couples who take on things in an individualistic manner.

It’s important to honor that you and your partner may process challenges differently, however seeing the struggle as a challenge together creates a supportive and understanding environment in the relationship.

Emotional ups and downs can also show physically in the body, so being sure to recognize the signs can help with distress among partners. Those who experience prolonged stress due to excessive worrying may notice:

• Muscle tension
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping
• Mental exhaustion

Recognizing these emotional and physical responses in yourself and your partner can make a difference in supporting overall wellness with each other during difficult moments.

Self Care During Hard Moments

Finding opportunities to rest and step away from everyday stress can be difficult when conversations about infertility seem to surface often. Questions from friends or family or casual conversations with coworkers can bring up emotions that are already heavy. Setting clear emotional boundaries for yourself and your partner can help protect your mental and emotional well-being during this time.

For many couples, this may mean muting or limiting social media, choosing to skip gatherings where personal questions may arise, or gently redirecting conversations that feel too personal. Learning to say “no” without guilt can be an important way to care for your emotional needs.

While connecting with others can be meaningful, there are times when social interactions may feel draining. During difficult moments, it can help to step back and prioritize quiet time together. Slowing down and spending time with one another can provide comfort and a sense of stability.

Creating small moments of self-care can also offer space to process emotions and reconnect with yourself. Simple practices such as journaling, spending time outdoors, or engaging in calming activities can help restore a sense of balance during an overwhelming time.

A Takeaway

During National Infertility Awareness Month, conversations around fertility challenges remind us that many people are navigating similar experiences. By approaching the topic with empathy and understanding, we can help create a more supportive space for those on their fertility journey.

And sometimes, the most meaningful step forward is simply holding space for yourself along the way.

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.