> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://zenstake.gitbook.io/zenstake/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://zenstake.gitbook.io/zenstake/getting-started/how-to-stake/cooldown-period-in-zenstake.md).

# Cooldown Period in ZenStake

ZenStake uses a cooldown period mechanism to ensure stability, security, and predictability in staking operations.

## What is a Cooldown?

The cooldown period is the amount of time you must wait before you can unstake your tokens after locking them into a pool.

During this period:

• Your tokens are locked and not available for withdrawal.

• They do not earn rewards.

• You can see the countdown timer in the Staked section of your dashboard.

## Cooldown Duration

• The cooldown period in ZenStake is 10 days.

• It starts immediately after staking your tokens.

• The timer counts down in real time.

## What Happens After the Cooldown?

Once the 10-day period is over:

1\. The Unstake button becomes active.

2\. You can initiate the unstake at any time.

3\. After confirming the transaction, your tokens are returned to your wallet.

## What If You Add More Stake?

If you add more tokens to an existing stake:

• The cooldown timer resets only for the newly added amount.

• Previously staked tokens keep their original cooldown progress.

## ⚠️ Key Notes

• You cannot manually skip or shorten the cooldown — it’s enforced by the protocol for all users equally.

• There is no cooldown for claiming rewards — only for unstaking.

• This mechanism helps maintain long-term liquidity in the pools and protects against flash exits.