Sometimes you just need to get away. Whether you are overworked and overstressed from your job, or your home projects and community obligations seem to be getting out of control, it is definitely worth it to take some time for yourself every once in awhile. The society in which we live is built upon this elusive idea of the American dream, and everyone is told to just keep working so that they will have a chance to see this dream realized someday. But what more people need to realize is that you can create your ideal life for yourself, rather than what society says it should be, and build it in such a way that you don’t have to wait for your holiday vacation days to kick in, or for retirement. Live your life in such a way that you can create your own little escapes from stress and overwhelming duties, when you need them, not when society, your job, or anyone else says you should.
Spontaneous weekend trips to refresh you
Whether you are eyeing some luxury accommodations for a spa weekend away from home or you want to hop on a plane to a new city to try the local food there, you are the architect of your weekend getaway. Of course, there will always be things that creep up into our schedules that keep us from escaping every single weekend, but if you can make it a priority to go somewhere you have been craving to explore or relax in, at least now and then, you will notice that your general health and wellness will improve. Perhaps you already eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. But if you are experiencing too much stress and not enough sleep, you are not as healthy as you might think. Getting out of the routine for a change of scenery could do wonders. Especially if that new local food you’re trying ends up being a new favorite!
Make your trip what you want it to be
Maybe you are looking forward to a little vacation in order to reconnect with your partner. One study showed that about 40% of travelers feel more inclined to romance when they are on vacation. It can be far too easy to let the stresses of the daily routine cloud the compatibility that once came so effortlessly to your relationship. Being intentional about getting away together, and planning activities together or even just simply relaxing together can make a big difference. Make a game of trying out different types of local food, or plan an entire day on the beach. Go sightseeing or take naps in hammocks.
While about 59% of individuals in one study said that they preferred to go on a relaxing vacation rather than participating in a more active one, it is completely up to you! If part of your stress is that you haven’t had time to devote to your physical needs, then you might be more inclined to plan a vacation full of activities. And if you happen to overdo it with the beachside run or the rock climbing or sightseeing cycling, there are ways to bring your body back into alignment that will put your mind at ease as well. More than 15 million people across the country practice yoga at least one time during a month. And one survey showed that about 19% of adults got at least one massage over the course of a year. Why not incorporate a massage and some yoga into your getaway to truly find your center again?
Whether you pack your trip full of activities, find yourself lounging on the beach for the majority of the time, or set out to indulge in the local food, your getaway needs to rejuvenate you. Find the itinerary that works best for you, so that you can head home truly refreshed and renewed, ready to tackle whatever comes next.
