Join Dr. Jessica de Bloom, a vacation well-being researcher from Groningen University, and Dr. Sarah Pressman, a health psychology expert from UC Irvine, as they explore the profound impacts of taking time off. They discuss how vacations boost both mental and physical health, emphasizing the benefits of unplugging and finding balance between capturing memories and being present. The duo also reflects on post-pandemic travel attitudes and the importance of meaningful experiences in enhancing well-being, offering strategies for maximizing your time away.
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Quick takeaways
Taking vacations significantly enhances both mental and physical health, reducing stress levels and improving overall well-being.
Completely unplugging from work during vacations is essential to maximize restorative effects and prolong the benefits after returning to daily life.
Deep dives
Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Taking Vacations
Research indicates that taking vacations is strongly correlated with improved mental and physical health outcomes. Longitudinal studies suggest that individuals who fail to take vacations show an increased risk of morbidity and even mortality due to heart problems. Furthermore, individuals report significant improvements in self-reported health and well-being during vacations, with these benefits often peaking during the trip but diminishing quickly once they return to work. The physiological advantages of vacations, such as lowered stress levels and better cardiovascular function, highlight the importance of regular breaks for maintaining overall health.
Types of Vacations: Staycations vs. Travel
The health benefits of vacations can vary depending on whether the vacation involves travel or a staycation at home. While both options allow for recovery and enjoyment, a staycation may present challenges due to the likelihood of engaging in chores or work-related activities that can detract from relaxation. In contrast, traveling can introduce stressors, such as planning and logistics, but it also offers novelty and the opportunity for social bonding that can enhance well-being. Ultimately, the effectiveness of either choice relies on individual preferences and circumstances, as well as how well one can disengage from work-related responsibilities.
The Importance of Unplugging During Vacations
Completely unplugging from work during vacations is crucial for maximizing the restorative effects of taking time off. Although some individuals manage to balance work and leisure effectively without negative consequences, many find that continuous engagement with work can diminish the vacation experience. Strategies such as leaving devices behind, setting up away messages, or imposing limits on work-related tasks can help facilitate mental detachment from work. Balancing the desire to stay connected with the need for full relaxation is essential for achieving the full benefits of a vacation.
Savoring the Vacation Experience and Its Longevity
The benefits of a vacation often fade quickly after returning to daily life, with individuals typically reverting to pre-vacation stress levels within a week. However, the positive effects can be extended through practices such as savoring experiences and sharing memories with others. Building and sustaining social connections during vacations can also provide ongoing emotional boosts, impacting overall well-being. Additionally, slow integration back into work, such as starting after a shorter work week, can preserve the relaxation effects and prolong the positive feelings associated with the vacation.
Whether your idea of the perfect vacation involves the beach, exploring a city, or just relaxing at home, you probably look forward to your time off all year. Sarah Pressman, PhD, of the University of California Irvine, and Jessica de Bloom, PhD, of Groningen University in the Netherlands, talk about why taking a break from work is important for physical and mental health, what you can do to make the most of your vacation time, and differences in work and vacation culture around the world.