We all need vacations – that’s a no-brainer. But why? Here are the top 7 great reasons to take a vacation that are proven by science:
# 1 – Vacation is the Best Detox For Your Mind and Body
The last two years have been tough for many people, emotionally and physically.
There have been way too many terrible things happening in the world lately. When our mind gets constantly bombarded with negative news, our body is affected, too. The feelings of fear, worry, and uncertainty may cause anxiety, panic, depression, and apathy. They may also make us physically sick.
I experienced this myself with the start of the pandemic. The fear of the unknown, worry about my loved ones, my work, and lack of social life led to anxiety and depression.
On February 24, the terrible news of my native country, Ukraine, being bombed and shelled by Russia shocked me. I have family and friends in Ukraine, and I have lived in constant fear for their lives since the beginning of the war.
Photo by Eugene on Unsplash
I was checking the news on my phone almost around the clock. I became so absorbed in watching the news that I forgot the world around me. The scientists described this problematic news consumption as an addiction in a recently published study. Constant stress weakened my natural immune defenses. After a few months of poor sleeping and eating, I got sick with a bad cold (not Covid, thankfully 🙂 )
Even the mere thought of taking a vacation seemed criminal to me. How can I enjoy myself when people in my homeland are dying and suffering? I felt guilty. I wanted to help in any way I could.
First, I needed to take care of my Mom and sister. It took three months and many challenges until they arrived in Canada. I am forever grateful to all the kind people who helped them along the way!
When my family was finally safe, I realized I had to take care of myself to be able to help other people in Ukraine.
I am so glad I decided to take vacation anyways! I came back as a brand-new person. Read on to find out why. There is a scientific explanation for this.
# 2 – Vacation Helps You De-Stress
Stress is part of today’s life, and so is cortisol. It can be short-lived, like when you are late for work. Cortisol level stays high long-term when you are under chronic stress. High cortisol can have harmful health effects. It can contribute to overeating, weight gain, poor memory, and a weakened immune system.
Vacation helps you relax by removing you from your usual stressors, which leads to lower cortisol levels. One study showed that stress-related gene activity changed for those on vacation. So, it’s more than a feeling 🙂
# 3 – Vacation Can Reduce the Risk of a Heart Attack
The 1992 Framingham Heart Study showed a significant positive impact of vacations on heart health. Results were staggering – women who took at least one week off each year cut their risk for heart attack by 50 percent. The number for men was 30 percent, and a lower risk of dying from heart disease. These results may also be related to reduced stress levels and more time outdoors.
# 4 – Vacation Adventures Boost Your Happiness Hormone
Taking vacations makes you feel better. When you get away from your routine tasks, it’s easier to attain a carefree attitude. There’s a biological reason, too. When you do something adventurous, your brain gets a blast of dopamine. This happiness hormone gives you a natural high when you enjoy new things or places. Go on vacation where you can do something outside your daily routine. It can be hiking, snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, surfing, mountain climbing – anything you love!
# 5 – Traveling Strengthens Your Immune System
Traveling doesn’t just allow you to enjoy new experiences. It expands your immune system’s ability to protect you. Going to other places exposes you to different pathogens. This exposure is good for you. Your immune system creates unique antibodies. These proteins then attach to pathogens and mark them for an attack. This protection can last very long, sometimes a lifetime.
If you are worried about getting sick while on vacation, here’s my ‘go-to’ solution to take with you while traveling. It gives me peace of mind and keeps me in top shape during my adventures.
# 6 – Your Brain Loves to Vacay, too!
It needs a break from the work routine. When your brain constantly focuses on daily tasks, it gets used to not vacationing. The neural connections that promote feelings of calm become weaker. Over time, it may become harder for your brain to switch to a relaxation mode.
Research shows that relaxation helps learn new skills and information better. The break from the daily routine lets your brain rest and switch into a more productive mode. Downtime and new experiences improve creativity.
Vacationing in new places forces your brain to work in different ways. You have to adapt to unusual environments. You may find yourself in unfamiliar situations that require fast problem-solving. These experiences train your brain to keep it resilient and healthy.
# 7 – Vacation Makes Your Personal Life Happier
How much time do you usually spend with your loved ones? Modern life and busy schedules often force us to sacrifice family time. Quality time on vacation helps build and strengthen family bonds. The highlights of my childhood memories were family vacations. My husband and I tried to create those lifetime experiences for our children. They tell us now that they are grateful for the unforgettable family trips to Europe, Disney World, Arizona, Grand Canyon, Bahamas, Curacao, and other beautiful destinations.
Research also shows that travel creates stronger family bonds and reduces the likelihood of divorce. Since we started taking vacation as a couple, I can attest to a better relationship with my hubby. Traveling gives us a chance to enjoy things we love together. The vacation vibes we bring back rub off on our whole family. Stay tuned for our recent 26-day-long vacation adventures!
Curious to know more about who I am, where I come from and what I do? Check my About Me page.
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