Being part of the rat race can leave you feeling mentally run down and physically unwell. In a world where you’re constantly online and running from one thing to the next, it can become very difficult to switch off and recharge. The importance of taking a well-deserved break is often underestimated.
Whether you choose to have a quiet vacation or perhaps spoil yourself to a magical private island resort getaway, taking a vacation is important. Here’s why.
4 Health Benefits of Taking Regular Vacations
Studies have found that constant exposure to work stress takes a serious toll on our mental and physical health. Planning and actually taking a proper vacation away from your usual daily schedule has several health benefits that you shouldn’t ignore.
Avoid Work Related Burnout
Employee burnout is on the increase. A recent study shows that out of 7 500 employees, 23% reported feeling burnout at work all the time. A staggering 44% (on top of the 23%) expressed feeling burnout at least some of the time.
Improve Physical Health
Many people these days either suffer from high blood pressure or heart disease. Stress is a major contributor to this. While it’s impossible to avoid stress completely, it’s necessary to slow down the effects it has on your body.
Other physical conditions caused by stress include frequent headaches and bouts of insomnia. Decreased immunity results in frequent illness. By taking a break you’ll give your body the chance to rejuvenate.
Improve Mental Health
Your body responded to continues stress by releasing cortisol an adrenaline. This elevates your heart rate which in turn contributes to higher blood pressure. This is how constant exposure to factors like work and traffic stress can weaken your immune system.
This type of stress also contributes to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and fatigue.
Time away, especially in a neutral, stress free setting, allows your mind and body to relax and heal.
Strengthen Relationships
Work stress also has an effect on or personal relationships. Do you often miss important family anniversaries or dates because of work commitments? Perhaps you don’t spend time with your family because of the way that your work stress makes you feel.
Successful relationships come from spending time with the people you care for. Many people at the end of their lives or careers often site one of their regrets about life as not spending enough time with loved ones. So, rather prioritise your people and enjoy the many benefits that will bring.
When are You Going?
Experts advise taking a proper work free vacation every two years at the very least. By doing the same job, having the same chores and experiencing the same continued exposure to your daily stresses, you are living our life on repeat. Your brain is literally tired. A well planned vacation won’t only give your mind the chance to recharge, it’ll also give your body the chance to rest and heal.
Also, spending time away from the daily grind will increase the bonds you have with your loved ones. Not to mention the opportunity to take some great holiday photos! Booked your flight yet?
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