Work, Work, Work: Why You Should Stop and Do This Instead
Get this: Every year, Americans throw away 415 million unused vacation days. Are you thinking what we're thinking? Have people lost their minds?
The truth is, not taking a vacation is ghastly for your health. In fact, being overworked and overstressed has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and death. So whatever your excuses for not taking a break -- your job can't live without you, you can't afford it, there simply aren't enough days in the year -- toss them out the window. Now!
We're not making this stuff up. Research shows that reducing stress and taking regular vacations -- at least once or twice a year -- may be as vital to your emotional and physical well-being as exercising and eating right. There is plenty of evidence.
People who take frequent vacations:
Are less likely to be depressed, tense, or tired
Have a lower risk of heart disease and death
Tend to be more satisfied with their marriages
Are more interested and more productive at work when they return
Bottom line: It's time to stop thinking of a vacation as a luxury you can live without, and start thinking of it as a healthy habit. It'll be the easiest healthy-lifestyle change you'll ever make.
Related: Get vacation-ready skin with this 9-day makeover.
6 Best Bets for a Restorative Getaway
There's no need to break the bank at a pricey spa retreat. But to improve your odds of returning home relaxed and recharged, employ these tried-and-true tips:
1. Go for lucky number 7. It generally takes people 2 to 3 days to really relax and get into the groove of vacation time -- and longer vacations are associated with greater psychological benefits than shorter ones. So plan a break that's at least 7 days long.
Here's how to keep jet lag from pilfering your vacation time.
2. Pack flip-flops and sunscreen. Warm, sunny destinations are the way to go if you're looking for a vacation that'll soothe your soul and lift your spirits, according to this study. Just make sure the heat won't be too extreme, and remember to apply your sunscreen.
Other factors that promote a sense of well-being on vacation include free time to do as you please (don't try to fit too much into your time off), lots of rest, and time spent getting to know new people. (Here's another good reason to introduce yourself.)
3. Balance family and free time. Spending time with relatives can be a great source of support. But all-together-now family vacations? They can be downright stressful. Still, if your parents/siblings/favorite cousins/grandparents live far away, vacations may be the only time you get to see them. What to do? If you're planning to spend your break with relatives, figure out ways to set aside chunks of "you" time, too.
4. Leave the laptop at home. If you think working on vacation will make your return easier, think again. Compared with people who don't work during their vacations, those who do are less likely to feel relaxed and energized -- and more likely to feel overwhelmed -- when they return.
5. Indulge a little. It's your vacation. Enjoy yourself. Just try to avoid overindulging on food and booze, which can disrupt your sleep, upset your stomach, leave you feeling worse for the wear, and send you home with a suitcase full of guilt.
6. Get some action. You don't have to go to a gym or do a full workout, but try to stay physically active while you're away. Take a walk to explore the area, go for a swim, or try something new and adventurous, such as windsurfing, kayaking, yoga, snorkeling, or horseback riding -- whatever tempts you.
Related: Can't get away for a while? Try this tonic to see you through.
Remember, You're the Boss
Most important: Take a vacation that suits your soul. Think back to some of your most memorable getaways, and choose a break with similar elements. Or go for a vacation that brings balance to your life. If you lead a hectic lifestyle, a relaxing break might do you good. If your days are more calm than chaotic, an active vacation might be a refreshing change of pace.
Whether your ideal vacation involves lounging on a beach; hiking through the hills; or exploring the museums, early-morning markets, and historic sights of a foreign city, just make it happen. Doctor's orders.
Get more health tips from RealAge:
