Slows down, having time off from worries (5)

I believe the answer is:

eases

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'slows' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to change as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eases that I've seen before include "Makes less severe" , "Alleviates, relieves" , "Facilitates" , "Relieves, lightens" , "Assuages or slackens" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.