Everyone needs a holiday every once in a while. Not just sick day or personal day off, but a decent amount of time off to escape everything – work, home and all personal obligations. A successful holiday should be relaxing, exciting and anything but stressful. But sometimes, unforeseen events and illnesses and can have you returning more stressed than before you left. By planning ahead and following simple health tips you can easily avoid stress and ward off a holiday illness.
It’s no secret that stress can lead to a decrease in physical and emotional well-being. So, why not get away? Research shows that taking a break from work and spending time re-charging has great benefits including increased creativity, focus and productivity, and boosts overall health and happiness.
Plan Ahead
To make the most of your vacation, you have to plan accordingly. Playing it by ear may sound appealing, but it doesn’t work for everyone. Besides, planning can be just as fun as the actual holiday and it gives you something to look forward to.
Disconnect
Think of it as a challenge – no smartphone or tablet, e-mails, Facebook, or Twitter. Handle all work responsibilities before you leave and set up an automated message so that you don’t have to respond to any work-related inquiries. If you need to check in, then implement some rules. Designate a specific time each morning to check e-mails, but DO NOT reply or answer the phone.
Do what You Enjoy
Your holiday won’t be as fun if you don’t do what you enjoy. Even if you are traveling with someone else, build in time to participate in the activities you like, whether it’s golfing, white water rafting, or shopping in local markets and taking cooking classes, do something that makes you happy.
Balance Activities
A mixture of high-energy activities and relaxation is essential. Research indicates that people feel more satisfied and relaxed after their holiday if they take time to relax.
Eat Healthy and Stay Active
Lounging by the pool all day is tempting, but can be detrimental to your health. By swimming, jogging or just walking you’ll stay healthier and you won’t feel as guilty about indulging in a decadent desert. You can deviate from your normal diet, but be mindful of what you eat. Try to incorporate probiotics and vitamin C into your diet to keep your digestive tract functioning and your immune system strong. Dehydration is a surefire way to get sick while on holiday, so drink plenty of water.
Protect Yourself from the Elements
Apply sunscreen every day, even if you’re not going outside. Look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays and has a SPF of 30 or higher. While outside, reapply sunscreen every two hours and wear sunglasses and a hat. Better safe than sorry!
When you return take a holiday from your holiday. Give yourself at least a day to ease back into your routine and prepare yourself mentally and physically to return to work.