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National Relaxation Day: How Insurance Can Actually Reduce Stress

author-photoWritten by Preston Micalizio
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Preston Micalizio

Preston Micalizio writes insurance content for SmartFinancial. He brings three years of professional experience writing ...

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editor-photoEdited by Richard Murphy
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Richard Murphy

Richard Murphy manages content on SmartFinancial's website. With a strong background in content strategy and copywriting...

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Updated August 3, 2026

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National Relaxation Day is an unofficial holiday dedicated to unwinding and taking the time to relax, which can reduce stress and benefit your overall health. Health professionals note that lower stress levels can help improve circulation and ease chronic pain, making this holiday an excellent opportunity to practice healthy habits and mindfulness exercises.

National Relaxation Day is observed every Aug. 15 to encourage people to slow down, reduce stress and prioritize their physical and mental well-being.

Those dealing with everyday stress and who want to take advantage of the health benefits of relaxation should read on to learn what National Relaxation Day is, when National Relaxation Day is and about relaxation techniques and the types of insurance that may help alleviate stress and promote overall well-being.

Key Takeaways

  • National Relaxation Day is celebrated every Aug. 15 and is dedicated to finding ways to reduce stress in your life and making time for relaxation.
  • Stress can negatively impact both your physical and mental health, but relaxation can serve as a critical tool for reducing stress.
  • Nearly half of adults in America deal with stress weekly, meaning adopting relaxation habits can be beneficial for most people’s health.
  • Health insurance may cover mental health services, such as therapy and counseling, that can help reduce stress and support long-term well-being.
  • This National Relaxation Day, try to avoid too much screen time and instead focus on a relaxing activity, such as reading, yoga or spending time in nature.

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What Is National Relaxation Day?

National Relaxation Day is dedicated to taking a break from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life.[1] While often misconstrued as mere laziness, relaxation is essential for staying healthy. For example, relaxation has been shown to provide numerous health benefits in our daily lives, including reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels, improving sleep quality and easing chronic pain.[2]

However, it’s easy to overlook the importance of relaxation — especially with a packed schedule. Too much stress can lead to anxiety, depression, weight gain and other adverse health issues.[3]

National Relaxation Day was founded on Aug. 15, 1985, by then-9-year-old Sean Moeller, who suggested that people use the day to do nothing of real value. Moeller believed people didn’t think about relaxing and that focusing too much on work could lead to sickness. After the holiday was featured in his grandfather's published book, National Relaxation Day gained international recognition, and Moeller continues to recognize individuals for their relaxation efforts to this day.[4][5][6]

When Is National Relaxation Day?

National Relaxation Day is observed every year on Aug. 15.[1] In 2026, it falls on a Saturday, giving many people the chance to extend their relaxation over the weekend.

Why Relaxation Is More Important Than Ever

Relaxation is a critical component of managing stress, which can have serious effects on the body and mind.[7] Stress has become a prevalent issue in modern American society, with 45% of adults reporting feeling stressed once a week due to news coverage or social media, while 16% report feeling stressed every day.[8] Other concerns, like personal finances, the cost of living, careers and health, are all top sources of stress that can lead to burnout, anxiety, delays in preventive care and withdrawal from your social circle.[9]

The Physical Effects of Chronic Stress

Chronic stress leads to an overproduction of cortisol and other hormones, resulting in a constant “fight or flight” response. This can lead to both long- and short-term physical health effects that could put you at risk for more serious health concerns. Some of the physical effects of chronic stress include:[10]

  • Digestive problems
  • Muscle tension and pain
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Unwanted weight gain
  • Lower sexual interest and ability to conceive
  • Worsened symptoms of menstruation and menopause
  • Higher risk of heart disease
  • Higher risk of heart attacks
  • Higher blood pressure
  • Higher risk of a stroke

Mental Health Effects

Chronic stress can also negatively affect your mental health, leading to:[10]

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Lack of focus
  • Memory problems

How Relaxation Supports Long-Term Health

Relaxation offers a range of long-term health benefits, beyond reducing stress. Relaxation can improve your sleep quality, which can strengthen your immune system, help you think more clearly during the day, and reduce the risk of injury from exhaustion.[11][12]

Relaxation can also help with pain management, including chronic pain, migraines and fibromyalgia. Regular relaxation can even help you live longer, reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.[11]

Simple Ways To Celebrate National Relaxation Day

Below are a few suggestions for celebrating National Relaxation Day:

  • Take a break from work: If you happen to be working on National Relaxation Day, consider taking the day off to rest and recharge if you feel it would be beneficial. Even if you can’t take the day off, reducing your responsibilities during the day may help.
  • Take care of chores in advance: Completing a lingering task — such as making a doctor’s appointment or an important phone call — can help you unwind more fully.
  • Perform a digital detox: Spend some time away from your phone or other screens and try a different activity during your free time, such as yoga, reading or even taking a refreshing nap. If you do go online, check out posts on social media with the #NationalRelaxationDay hashtag to gather ideas for relaxing or to share your own.
  • Practice self-care: Create a spa day for yourself at home and make yourself your favorite meal. You can also do as much meal prep as possible beforehand, giving you more time to enjoy your hard work while relaxing.
  • Spend time outdoors: Go for a nature walk, enjoy a picnic and appreciate the outdoors. If you don’t already have a favorite spot, try looking up nearby trails and parks, which often don’t charge an admission fee.
  • Engage with your community: Connecting with friends, family, and neighbors can help you relax and feel less isolated.
  • Consider purchasing insurance coverage: Insurance can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety by helping cover the cost of unexpected, expensive events. Review the available insurance types and determine whether any additional coverages are needed.

Can Health Insurance Support Stress Management?

Health insurance can help support your stress management by covering mental health services, including counseling and psychotherapy in both in-person and virtual sessions.[13] These services can help you learn more effective stress management techniques and strategies, while also offering support and validation.[14]

Health insurance plans through your employer may also provide access to an employee assistance program (EAP), which can offer short-term stress-management counseling and coaching, along with referrals to mental health professionals, at no additional cost.[15]

Everyday Habits That Reduce Stress

What everyday habits help someone relax may vary from person to person. Achieving the body’s relaxation response — a period of slower breathing and lower blood pressure – may be more effective with one method than another.[16] Below are a few techniques to try and see what works best for you:

  • Take up a physical activity: Starting a yoga, walking or gym routine can be a great way to relieve stress while also improving your physical fitness.
  • Enjoy your favorite tea flavor: Mint, chamomile, lavender, rose, and matcha all have calming properties. However, caffeinated teas should be consumed in moderation, as they can raise your heart rate.[17]
  • Enjoy your favorite media: Listen to soothing music or watch a low-stakes film or television show for stress relief.
  • Practice meditation: Quieting your mind and stilling your body can help you relax. Try breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation to help ground yourself.
  • Enjoy the outdoors: Going for nature walks has been shown to improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression.[18]
  • Seek therapy: A licensed professional can help you talk through what’s causing your stress and offer actionable advice. Many health insurance plans cover therapy, making it more accessible and affordable.[19]

National Relaxation Day at a Glance

Below is the essential information you should know about celebrating National Relaxation Day:

  • National Relaxation Day occurs every Aug. 15 and serves as a day to reduce stress and avoid overburdening yourself with work, so you can refresh and rejuvenate.
  • Relaxation can help combat and reduce chronic stress, which has a number of negative physical and mental health effects, such as a higher risk of heart attacks and anxiety.
  • Relaxation promotes long-term health benefits, such as improving sleep, helping manage chronic pain, reducing the risk of serious health concerns and supporting overall well-being.
  • Your health insurance typically covers a range of mental health services that can help you with stress management and relaxation techniques.
  • Taking up new habits, such as walking outdoors and reducing your time on your phone, can help you relax and lower your stress.

How To Utilize Your Health Benefits on National Relaxation Day

If you’ve been dealing with stress, using your health benefits to schedule an appointment with a therapist or counselor on National Relaxation Day can be a great way to find more peace of mind. Contact your health insurance provider to learn more about which services are covered. Many insurers can also help you find an in-network provider.

Get Matched With the Right Agents and Companies for the Best Health Insurance Quotes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does health insurance cover therapy?

Yes, many health insurance policies cover therapy and counseling sessions.[19] If your health insurance is purchased through the Marketplace, it must cover mental and behavioral health services, including psychotherapy.[20]

Why is relaxation important for your health?

According to health professionals, relaxing has significant health benefits, helping to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, control blood sugar, improve sleep quality and ease chronic pain.[2]

Does health insurance cover acupuncture?

Some health insurance plans may cover acupuncture, but it may require a prescription from your doctor or may only be covered as a treatment for specific conditions. For example, some plans may cover acupuncture to treat nausea from surgery or chronic pain that has lasted at least six months and has been resistant to other treatment methods. In contrast, Medicare only covers acupuncture for the treatment of chronic low back pain.[21][22]

Can reducing stress lower health care costs?

Reducing stress can help lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety and prevent unwanted weight gain, all of which could lead to lower health care costs in the long run.[3] By keeping yourself as stress-free as possible, you can help reduce your potential health care costs.

What are signs that stress may need medical attention?

Seek medical attention if your stress is leaving you feeling overwhelmed, affecting your physical health or causing symptoms that don't go away. Don’t be fearful of speaking with your medical provider if you are using recreational drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, as they can usually refer you to a mental health professional who can help you develop healthier strategies for stress management.[23]

Sources

  1. National Today. “National Relaxation Day.” Accessed July 30, 2026.
  2. Mayo Clinic. “Relaxation Techniques: Try These Steps To Lower Stress.” Accessed July 30, 2026.
  3. Mayo Clinic. “Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk.” Accessed July 30, 2026.
  4. National Relaxation Day. “The History.” Accessed July 30, 2026.
  5. Checkiday.com. “National Relaxation Day.” Accessed July 30, 2026.
  6. International Relaxation Day. “International Relaxation Day.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  7. Wellbeing People. “Why Relaxation Is So Important.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  8. Ohio State Medical Center. “Nearly Half of Americans Are Stressed at Least Once a Week, and 1 in 6 Are Stressed Every Day.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  9. The American Institute of Stress. “What the Latest Reports Say About Stress in America.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  10. Mayo Clinic. “Chronic Stress Puts Your Health at Risk.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  11. Grandview Medical Center. “How Relaxation Can Improve Your Overall Health.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  12. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. “Get Enough Sleep.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  13. Anthem. “Understanding Mental Health Coverage In the U.S.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  14. Chapters Health System. “Stress Management: The Role of Mental Health Counselors.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  15. Cigna. “Stress Management Toolkit.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  16. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. “Relaxation Techniques: What You Need To Know.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  17. ArtfulTea. “Calming Tea: The 5 Best Teas for Anxiety and Stress.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  18. Journal of Clinical Medicine. “A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Nature Walk as an Intervention for Anxiety and Depression.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  19. VeryWellMind. “Does Health Insurance Cover Therapy?” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  20. Healthcare.gov. “Mental Health and Substance Abuse Health Coverage Options.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  21. Blue Cross. “Is Acupuncture Covered by Health Insurance?” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  22. Medicare.gov. “Acupuncture Coverage.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
  23. Cleveland Clinic. “Stress: What It Is, Symptoms, Management & Prevention.” Accessed July 31, 2026.
About the Author
Preston Micalizio
Preston Micalizio
Insurance Insurance Expert

Preston Micalizio writes insurance content for SmartFinancial. He brings three years of professional experience writing in various industries, from higher education to e-commerce. He strives to engage with the audience, provide accurate reporting and make complex subjects easily digestible.

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