The benefit of vacation became apparent to me in my twenties. In Graduate School, I worked three jobs and went to school at night. I worked part-time at UC Berkeley and owned a gym where I trained clients and taught classes. I had a break from school and wanted to go on a backpacking trip with my friends. We planned to backpack through Yosemite, a trip that takes a lot of preparation and advanced planning.
I let my clients know the dates I was gone and asked my boss for the time off. To my surprise, she rejected my vacation request. “I need you to be here,” is all she said. I was juggling three jobs and grad school. My body felt heavy, and my mind was stifled. If I didn’t get a break now, I wouldn’t have another chance for the rest of the school year. I needed a mental release.
This sounds childish, and maybe it is, but this was one of many drivers that led me to be my own boss. I knew I couldn’t work in an environment that didn’t prioritize mental health and recognize signs of burnout. I have no problem working hard for a long period of time, but part of that endurance for hard work requires time off.
I’ve been my own boss for 14 years and still live by this philosophy. Taking a vacation offers numerous benefits. Here are some of the key advantages I’ve experienced.
10 Benefits of Taking Vacation
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- Stress Reduction. Vacations provide a break from the daily routine and can significantly reduce stress levels. Not setting an alarm and sleeping in allows us to relax. Engaging in leisure activities, exploring new places, and disconnecting from work-related responsibilities gives us a glimpse of a world outside our own and rejuvenates the mind and body.
- Improved Mental Health. Taking time off allows individuals to relax, unwind, and focus on their mental well-being. Vacations promote emotional stability, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance overall mental health.
- Enhanced Productivity. When I train for a marathon swim, I work hard for four weeks and then rest for one week to let my muscles recover. Our minds function the same way. Taking regular vacations boosts productivity. By allowing yourself to rest and recharge, you return to work with increased motivation, energy, and creativity. This helps prevent burnout and promotes a more focused and efficient work ethic.
- Quality Time with Loved Ones. Vacations provide an opportunity to spend quality time with family, friends, or loved ones. Strengthening relationships, creating shared memories, and enjoying meaningful experiences can deepen bonds and improve overall happiness.
- Broadened Perspective: Traveling to new destinations exposes individuals to different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives. For example, I was in Istanbul during the major trial when Dr. Ford testified against Justice Kavanaugh for sexual assault. Days after the accusation, Kavanaugh was elected Supreme Court Justice of the United States. I was shocked to read this and turned to talk to the woman sitting next to me. She was wearing a full hijab with only her eyes exposed. My body softened, and my heart opened. There I was, wanting to discuss politics and female oppression in the US, and she didn’t even have a right to speak to strangers. This travel moment led to my personal growth, broadened my knowledge, and enhanced my understanding of the world. Experiencing diverse environments fosters empathy, tolerance, and open-mindedness.
- Increased Happiness and Well-being: Vacations are associated with increased happiness and life satisfaction. We are multifaceted beings that need more than intellectual stimulation. Taking a break from the routine, engaging in enjoyable activities, and experiencing new things can bring joy and a sense of fulfillment.
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- Physical Health Benefits: Vacations often involve walking, swimming, hiking, or exploring new places. Yoga Retreats are a great way to improve physical and mental health on vacation. Walking around a new city and engaging in such activities promotes physical fitness, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts overall well-being.
- Creativity and Inspiration: Stepping away from daily obligations and immersing oneself in a different environment can spark creativity and inspire fresh ideas. Exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences can stimulate the imagination and enhance problem-solving skills.
- Work-Life Balance: Vacations are crucial in achieving a healthy work-life balance. Taking time off allows individuals to prioritize their personal lives, nurture relationships, pursue hobbies, and enjoy leisure activities, ultimately contributing to a more fulfilling life.
- Prevent Burnout: Research shows that regular vacations are associated with improved health and wellness, a lower risk of heart disease, improved sleep patterns, reduced risk of burnout, and overall longevity.
In summary, vacation offers numerous benefits. Remember, the specific benefits of a vacation can vary from person to person, but overall, it provides an opportunity to relax, recharge, and prioritize personal well-being.
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