With 2023 fast approaching and PTO days starting anew, now is an excellent time to begin planning a vacation for the new year.
More hours are being worked in the U.S., and people are taking less time off for themselves, causing extra stressors and challenges. The fallout of this can cause a variety of mental, physical, and psychological strains.
Studies have shown that taking time away from the job can have physical and mental health benefits.
When work is overpowering, and your work-life balance feels nonexistent, this is the time to consider taking a much-needed vacation.
To elaborate more, here are a few health benefits of vacation. I mean, you must do it if it’s good for your health, right?
- Better physical health
Heart disease and high blood pressure are linked to stress. It was reported by the New York Times that taking a vacation every two years compared to every six can minimize the risk of coronary heart disease or heart attacks.
- Better mental health
Neuroscientists have found that prolonged exposure to stress and pressure can alter your brain structure, which can cause anxiety and depression. Feelings of calm arise during vacation, and these feelings relieve stress, allowing the body and mind to heal in ways that would be difficult if they were still under pressure.
- Improved well-being
A Gallup study revealed that regular vacations with family or friends could lead to higher well-being at all income levels. People who “always make time for regular trips” had a 68.4 score on the Gallup-Heathway’s Well-Being Index, compared to a 51.4 Well-being score for less frequent travelers. One study concluded that three days after vacation, subjects’ physical complaints, quality of sleep, and mood had improved compared to before vacation. These benefits were still present five weeks later, especially in those who had more personal time and overall satisfaction during their vacation.
- Enhanced mental motivation
The break from the everyday grind makes people more focused and productive. Excessive stress can make it challenging to deliver on work tasks appropriately. Like a regular oil change for your car, a change of scenery can do wonders for the brain, including improvements in cognition, mental health, and productivity.
- Improved quality time with family
Spending uninterrupted time with loved ones and bonding is known to help foster positive relationships. An Arizona Department of Health and Human Services study found that women who took vacations were more satisfied in their marriages. Family vacation memories last a lifetime. Think back to your childhood. Some of your fondest memories may be the vacations you took.
- Reduced burnout
Burnout is real. Employees who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience it, allowing them to be more creative and beneficial.
Think of the Oxygen Mask Rule: “Secure your masks before assisting others.” Your mind, body, and well-being must be taken care of before you can effectively help in other aspects of your life.
- Boosted happiness
Research shows planning a vacation and having something to look forward to can boost your happiness. Some people even feel an elevated positive mood shift up to eight weeks before the trip.
Many of us don’t need excuses to take a vacation but knowing how beneficial it is for our health and well-being makes it easier to justify the importance. Taking time away from the stressors and challenges of daily life and work requirements can help improve several aspects of your life. There is no better way to take on the responsibilities that await your return than with a relaxed and refreshed state of mind.
Welcome Home Rental Properties have many luxury homes in Jacksonville Beach to help you and your family relax and unwind. With beach views and the opportunity to lounge by the pool or in the jacuzzi, the chance to alleviate stress is endless. Visit our reservations page to determine which home is a good fit for your next vacation!
