Why Taking a Vacation is Good For You
May 29, 2022
Photo Courtesy of Ben Mack via Pexels
As you double-check your packing list and finish the last of your work tasks, you can’t help but feel a surge of feel-good hormones. And that’s exactly what you need to help recharge your body and mind. You’re off to a good start!
European workers take between 65-80% of their allowed vacation days, depending on the country. That’s more than double the number of Americans planning to use their fully allotted holiday time. It remains to be seen if these numbers go up post-pandemic, however, the positive impact that a vacation has on our well-being can’t be denied. There’s a saying that time off is just what the doctor ordered, and studies back that up. Lowered stress levels mean lower chances of heart diseases. Last, a vacation raises our happiness levels, which is linked to a healthier lifestyle.
So what are the ingredients of a restorative vacation?
Do What the Locals Do
One of the best ways to enjoy a stress-free holiday is to do what the locals do. For example, if you’re visiting a southern European country, chances are that many of the shops will close between 13.00 and 16.00. It’s smart to slow down and stay out of the sun and take this opportunity to take a nap, read a book, or enjoy a leisurely lunch. Allow your body to adapt to the local rhythm of the day. That might mean taking city tours in the morning hours and relaxing in the warmer afternoon hours.
Make Connections
What better time is there to try new experiences than when you’re on vacation? Take a cooking or art class from a local artisan. Do you get stressed out about getting around a city? Try hiring a local guide—not only will you learn a lot about your surroundings, but you also won’t get lost. Be curious and explore the open markets for unusual spices and regional produce. Or, try a new activity like Stand Up Paddling at the beach or lake. All of these activities bring you together with friends or family. Deepening connections with others releases oxytocin, of the “happy hormones”, and helps lower stress levels.
Listen to Your Body
We all have different ideas of what makes the perfect vacation. For some, it’s being as active as possible and immersing oneself in the culture. For others, nothing could be better than laying out by the pool with an entertaining summer read. Whatever your aims are, listen to your body. Some days it might tell you that it needs to slow down. On other days you might be ready to explore your surroundings.
4 Tips for a Restful Vacation
- Get the stressful work, like booking hotels and transport, done well ahead of time.
- Establish boundaries: agree with colleagues and/or clients before you leave that you won’t be checking your emails. If absolutely necessary, check for emergency calls once a day.
- Be flexible, chances are not everything will go 100% to plan.
- Embrace what you love to do on a holiday, and let everything else go.
Holidays are the ideal time needed for our bodies to rest and repair. Are you taking yours?
