Why You Deserve a Break: The Health Benefits of a Staycation

The frenzy of everyday life can truly put you to the test. From rushing to get into the office to balancing infinite scheduled appointments in your diary, you rarely get the chance to stop and breathe. In the long run, this prolonged hustle and bustle can have a negative effect on your wellbeing.

Why not take a break from your hectic routine and enjoy some well-deserved ‘me time’? A small holiday could be what you need. From unspoiled countryside and iconic landscapes to world-class museums and surf-ready beaches, there are many British locations to enjoy not too far from home. Indeed, not only will a staycation help you unwind and free your mind, but it can also bring significant health benefits to your body.

Therefore, this article takes a look at the positive impact that getaways can have on both your physical and mental wellbeing. By the end, you may feel the urge to open a new browser tab and book that much-needed break right away.

Something to look forward to

You may think that the benefits of a holiday begin once you step out of the train or luggage-filled car. In truth, the positive effects start flowing as soon as you buy your transport tickets and reserve your room, whether it’s a Brighton seafront hotel or any other 4-or-5-star hotels.

Indeed, booking and planning your future trip can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself. According to a 2014 research by Cornell University, the anticipation of a holiday can massively enhance a traveller’s happiness and brighten their mood from the outset. In the words of Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, a German philosopher and dramatist, “to await a pleasure, is itself a pleasure”. That sentiment holds true for holiday planning.

Ultimately, it will give you something to really look forward to and will help you take on those grey days in the office with a huge smile on your face.

Reduces stress levels

Going on holiday offers you the chance to unplug from the reality of everyday life. A break can give you a chance to step back from obligations, commitments, and responsibilities, both in your private and work life. With this, you will be able to set aside any form of pressure or anxiety. In short, removing your day-to-day tasks and allowing your mind to focus on something different will work wonders on your mental health.

Moreover, feelings of comfort and enjoyment lower the production of a stress hormone known as ‘cortisol’. Importantly, this hormone tends to play a crucial part in increasing the risk of weight gain, indigestion, and heart attacks.

Overall, travelling helps you destress and staycations provide you with new experiences that distract your mind.   

Restores your mental sharpness

We all have one of those days when nothing seems to go our way. It can be a very draining experience. At work, you would be advised to take a short break to recuperate some lucidity and productivity. But the truth is that, from time to time, you require prolonged breaks to refuel properly.

Vacations can do just that. In fact, the reinvigorating effect of holidays can help you recharge your mental batteries while giving you the necessary strength to dive back into your routine once you return.  

Keeps you active

When visiting a new corner of Britain, you will very likely spend lots of time exploring its streets, markets, and parks. Moving around on foot will keep you active and provide a boost of all-important physical activity.

Not only does exercise keep your body healthy and in shape, but it can also boost your mental health. Indeed, by getting the chance to do something energetic, you will brighten your mood and increase your sense of wellbeing.

Improves your sleep quality

As mentioned, indulging in a staycation allows your mind to heal from the frenzy and worries of everyday life. Alongside reducing stress levels, you will find that you will enjoy deeper snoozes when on vacation.

From tasty meals in quaint villages to relaxing afternoons in the glorious, British countryside, you will be able to switch off and allow your mind to relax. In fact, a peaceful break stimulates quality sleep and longer night rests. It could also help you settle into a routine of regular sleep patterns that will really benefit your physical and mental health in the long run too.

With the array of wellness benefits that vacations can bring, it is clear how crucial it is to take a break from time to time. So, are you ready to book a British staycation yet? We hope that this article will encourage you to plan your next trip and unwind immersed in a new, reinvigorating environment. You deserve it!

Source

https://www.familyholidayassociation.org.uk/blog/mental-health-benefits-holidays/#:~:text=Going%20on%20holiday%20can%20give%20you%20a%20fresh,you%20stay%20active%2C%20which%20helps%20your%20mental%20health

https://www.healthandfitnesstravel.com/blog/why-holidays-are-important-for-our-mental-and-physical-health

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0956797614546556

https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel/2020/05/heres-why-planning-a-trip-can-help-your-mental-health

https://traveltorecovery.com/10-benefits-of-taking-a-wellness-holiday/