A vacation may be what the doctor ordered

During these bitter cold months of winter, you may be finding yourself suffering from fatigue, irritability, low productivity and general uninspired blah. These experiences may indicate a need for vacation. Consider vacationing a form of self-care, as it has been proven to improve your mental and physical health. While I recognize that not everyone can afford to take a trip or the time away, if you can, you may find benefits for your mind and body.

7 health benefits of taking a vacation

Studies have shown that taking time away from the job and everyday stress can have physical and mental health benefits. Vacations are linked to:

• lower stress
• less risk of heart disease
• better outlook on life
• more motivation to achieve goals.

If you still need a little convincing, here is a list of some additional benefits of taking time away from work.

Improved physical health

Stress can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure. For both men and women, studies show that taking a vacation every two years compared to every six will lessen the risk of coronary heart disease or heart attacks. Traveling encourages habits such as walking, healthy eating and social interactions. It may even reduce your risk of premature aging. Living longer means more time for vacations.

Improved mental health

The University of Pittsburgh’s Mind-Body Center found vacations increase pleasant emotions while reducing depression. Vacations also provide a greater opportunity to experience moments of awe, which have also been researched and found to generate a boost in mood. Knowing you have a vacation, or even a break, in your future makes it easier to push through the stressful and mundane days.

Greater well-being

One study found that three days after vacation, people’s physical complaints, quality of sleep and mood had improved compared to before vacation. These gains were still present five weeks later, especially in those who had more personal time and overall satisfaction during their vacation. This suggests you have some control over how you feel; schedule more personal time and engage in activities that you enjoy, and you will feel better physically, sleep better and be in a better mood for more than a month.

Increased mental motivation

Studies have found that chronic stress can make it difficult to achieve certain tasks and cause memory problems. Taking time off can be like getting a tune-up for the brain, improving your mental health and cognition.

Improved family relationships

One study found that couples who participated in interesting, challenging, and exciting activities on vacation experienced greater relationship intimacy and satisfaction even after returning home and resuming typical life routines. Vacations also can be a time for siblings to connect in ways they are not likely to do in day-to-day life.

Less burnout

Employees who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience burnout, making them more creative and productive than their overworked, under-rested counterparts.

Boosted happiness

Research shows even the process of planning a vacation can boost your happiness. Some people experience an elevated mood up to eight weeks before the trip and can linger for weeks after returning home. Make sure to get all you can out of your vacation by planning, shopping, packing and daydreaming months before the scheduled start date.

How often should you take a vacation?

Planning is key for a stress-free vacation! Ask yourself how much stress you are under, what can you afford and what is motivating your desire for a vacation. Once you've answered those questions, you can determine when, where and how you'll spend your vacation, but don't miss the opportunity. Hoarding paid time off (PTO) is not the best thing for your physical and mental health. 

The bottom line on vacations and mental health

Take a vacation if you can, even if it’s a staycation. Time away from the stresses of work and daily life can improve your health, relationships, job performance and perspective. A well-timed trip can help you feel refreshed and more prepared to handle whatever comes when you return.