Four Expert Approved Suggestions To Help You Relaxation On Vacation

Maintaining a healthy work/life balance is essential for mental health, particularly in preventing burnout. Being able to take a break from the turmoil and properly de-stress can be considered a type of self-care, as the detrimental impacts of living in a constantly connected society cannot be overlooked.

According to a recent survey by software company Ceridian, 87% of employees reported having burnout symptoms in the previous year, while only 51% reported being able to completely unplug over the summer. Furthermore, a study by comparison website iCompario found that people usually need five days—that is, your full weeklong break—to decompress and wind down when on vacation.

So whether you’re on a longer trip to Sicily or a weekend getaway to Whitstable, these professional suggestions for unplugging will help you unwind, rest, and have the best time.

Make Plans Today, Then Unwind Later

It’s advisable to plan beforehand before traveling to the airport in order to reduce stress.

“When we go somewhere completely new, we can often stay in a state of hyper-alertness that is created by the fact that we’re navigating a new environment,” says Emma Jefferys, a licensed NLP practitioner and accredited coach. Planning ahead and doing some research will help you become more comfortable with the location, the restaurants in the vicinity, and any potential excursions, which will enable you to unwind much more quickly once you are there.

OOO does not signify “ooo let me read one email”

While it might seem like a good idea to stay in touch with work while on vacation, doing so might ultimately increase anxiety and make it more difficult to relax.

The Head of Nutrition at Wild Nutrition, Lorna Driver-Davies, advises putting your phone away for a bit. An estimated 61% of British workers believe they must work throughout their vacation, with 68% working past their normal hours the day before they leave. Mute the alerts if you can, or remove them entirely from your phone.

Try Something Enjoyable and Novel

According to Lowri Dowthwaite-Walsh, senior lecturer in psychological interventions at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), “Learning something new or experiencing something new while on vacation can improve your mood and divert you from your to-do list at home because our brains enjoy fresh adventures.”

She adds, ‘Being away from work can be an opportunity for fun and letting your hair down. Engaging in playful and creative activities can also boost mood and reduce stress.’

Include Play In Your Daily Activities

Let free and enjoy yourself to relieve any tension associated with the holidays!

“Life can be pretty full-on,” says Emma Jefferys, a licensed NLP practitioner and accredited coach. Holidays are a time to enjoy yourself and reconnect with your lighter, more lighthearted side. Take a camel ride, go body surfing, go banana boating, be buried in the sand, participate in karaoke, and wear face glitter. Allow your playful side to come out and observe where it leads.