I think it’s safe to say that we all enjoy vacations. After all, that is why we work so hard, or at least one reason I do. Having something to look forward to, an amazing beach to lay on, and experiences to share with my family puts a big smile on my face. Many view vacations as frivolous or unnecessary, but studies show quite the opposite. Check out a few of the benefits below and get packing!

1. Reduce Stress and Anxiety

According to the American Psychological Association, taking a vacation removes you from environments and activities that you find stressful or that make you anxious. From my experience, I would agree and add that it transports you to a place of enjoyment and relaxation. Plus, the effects can last beyond the duration of the vacation as you go back to work and family activities feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

2. Help Your Heart

An article titled “Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial: Risk Factor Changes and Mortality Results” in the Journal of the American Medical Association referenced a study that found men who take frequent annual vacations were 32 percent less likely to die from heart disease than their counterparts who did not. Similar results were found for women in a Framingham Heart Study.

3. Reconnect With Family

In a study conducted by Purdue University’s Xinran Letho found families who vacation together undergo shared experiences and experiential learning, communication and togetherness, and escape and relaxation. All of these contribute to positive well-being and connection with family relationships. Not to mention that time away from phones, computers, television, and other electronic devices actually allows us to have conversations and create memories with one another.

4. Refresh and Renew

I think we can all relate to taking a step back or a break from something that we are intensely working on. This can help us gain perspective, approach things from a different point of view, or regain motivation to tackle it with greater zest or zeal. Taking a vacation can do the same thing. Getting out of our hamster wheel of work and personal activity allows us to take a step back, gain perspective, and refocus. Coming back from vacation can create a new sense of focus and level of productivity to get things done.

Vacations don’t have to be extravagant or costly. The last thing you want to do is pay for a vacation with debt as that will lead to further stress and anxiety. Staycations at home or short weekend trips can be just as effective and fun.

Questions: Why is taking a vacation important to you? What benefits do you see from taking a break? Leave in the comments below.

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