Whether you’re burnt out at work, or just looking to get away from the ho-hum of the day-to-day—it’s time for a vacation. In fact, you can’t afford not to take one. Studies show a trip can help reduce your stress level, force you to discover new things, and refresh your attitude. Best Vacations Ever! by Preferred Guest Resorts encourages you to plan a trip for better health.
PERKS OF PLANNING
Scientists in the Netherlands conducted a study on vacation happiness and its lasting effects. One of the most surprising findings in the study was that planning a vacation made people just as happy as the vacation itself, with even longer lasting effects. The anticipation alone boosted happiness for up to a full eight weeks. So once you get the vacation penciled in on your calendar, take the time to go over the details and picture yourself enjoying the excursions you plan on taking.
VACATIONS KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, make sure you take time to de-stress and enjoy yourself—you owe it to your mind and body. Information gathered from the Framing Heart Study helped researches discover that women who took a vacation once every six years were almost eight times more likely to develop coronary heart disease or have a heart attack than those who took two vacations per year.
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Chances are, if you’re on vacation, you’re not going to spend your days cooped up in the hotel watching reality TV marathons. You’re going to be outside lying on the beach or hiking in the mountains or taking pictures of iconic buildings, depending on where your travels take you. Being outside gives you direct access to the sun’s rays and Vitamin D. Sunlight is a mood-booster in itself. Vitamin D helps prevent cancer, bone disease, and depression and can help lower and control insulin. Bonus: Studies show that being outdoors for part of the day helps reset circadian rhythms, balances hormones, and promotes weight loss.
LOSE THE STRESS BY TAKING SOME TIME OFF
Taking a vacation can have a lasting impact on your stress level. Studies have shown that taking time off can reduce stressful days up to five weeks later. It makes sense when you really think about it: Reduce stress by removing yourself from the source of your stress. That’s why it’s important to plan your vacation well in advance to avoid adding further pressure on yourself—the point is to lessen your stress level, not contribute to it.
GET PACKING!
At the end of the day, you owe it to yourself and your family to take a break. Get out there and discover new places, people, and activities. Come back recharged and more motivated to give it your all.
So, are you packed yet? Do you now realize the many positive health benefits that vacationing can bring? If so, head over to www.BestVacationsEver.com to start planning your next getaway—you won’t regret it.