By Bronwyn Ison
Let’s face it; we dwell in a stressed society. One of the best gifts to self is an occasional vacation. We often hear or make excuses that we do not have time to get away. Furthermore, we cannot afford to leave our jobs or we simply do not have the funds. While all of these extraneous concerns may have some validity, it is time to make vacation a priority.
Stepping away from your daily routines and changing your atmosphere will be exceptionally beneficial. You would be pleasantly surprised that a little time away from the mundane, may spark a new idea. Studies indicate vacations may promote creativity. It is a time to reconnect with yourself and/or your family.
Most Americans are burning the candle at both ends. We are rarely finding time for self, family or social activities. If you are recognizing a disgruntled employee or co-worker it may be time they take a break. Workers who take regular vacations are less likely to burnout on the job. When one returns to work they are more creative, productive and ebullient in the workplace.
Taking a vacation once or twice a year may also promote your overall well-being and health. Studies have also indicated, a person’s mood and physical health improved as compared to prior a vacation. Those who partake in personal time on vacation indicated overall satisfaction as many as five weeks later.
Living in a stressed out society it should come as no surprise that a good vacation may decrease a person’s stress level. However, most of us take our work with us on the road, laptops, cell phones, iPads. It is a good idea to disconnect while you are on vacation. Or, be sure to set boundaries with yourself. Decrease the time you spend on work. With this being said, decrease or diminish your social media activity also. You should be enjoying yourself without technology continually at your fingertips.
Since chronic stress is generally the reason we need a vacation you should also understand the toll your body takes when overly agitated. Our body will find it challenging to resist infection, maintain vital functions and we are more susceptible to injury. If you are stressed and tired you are more likely to become ill, your arteries take a beating, you may not sleep well and food can be difficult to digest. Mentally it is difficult to function at your full capacity as you may be irritable, depressed or anxious.
When you are ready to take a vacation be sure to plan ahead. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your next destination. Exact, research on your accommodations. Plan activities for yourself, mate and/or family. This will eliminate the stress of wondering what to do when you arrive. Plus, you may be able to make reservations for your favorite things to do.
If you have not yet sojourned from our desert heat, it’s not to late to break away.
Kick back, relax and enjoy a little time away. You deserve it!
Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. www.e-volveyoga.com 760.564.YOGA(9642)
