relaxation on vacation - Tips for a successful journey
A successful vacation is the perfect opportunity to escape the routine and recharge energy. But how can the journey itself really be relaxing and rejuvenating? The key is a combination of good planning, mindful relaxation, and the right balance between activities and rest periods. Scientific insights and practical tips provide orientation.
A relaxing vacation begins with a good, but not overloaded, preparation. A well-planned trip, where accommodation, flights, and activities are booked in advance, can reduce stress and ensure that one enjoys the time off from the start. A rough itinerary allows for spontaneous endeavors but provides enough structure. This combination of structure and flexibility is the key to a rejuvenating vacation. On the other hand, those who know that the spontaneous search for accommodation is part of the travel experience welcome such adventures.
Stress Reduction on Vacation: How to Achieve It
It's important to really relax on vacation. Instead of working through a long to-do list, one should focus on relaxation. Scientific studies show that passive activities such as taking a nap by the pool, listening to the sound of the waves, or simply gazing thoughtlessly into the distance can significantly improve well-being. The smartphone should be used as little as possible, as constant availability reduces the relaxation effect. It is therefore advisable to turn off the phone at least for some hours a day or leave it in the hotel room.
Financially being generous can also enrich the vacation. Shopping and experiences release the release of dopamine in the brain, which increases happiness. The handling of foreign currencies and their high amounts can enhance this effect. A study by economist Klaus Wertenbroch shows that the feeling of spending a lot of money increases satisfaction in vacation and that larger numbers on banknotes make us more generous. In general, it is better to invest in unforgettable experiences than in material things.
Shorter but Authentic Vacations Lead to More Relaxation
Instead of using the entire annual leave for a long trip, it can be more effective to distribute several shorter vacations over the year. The ideal vacation duration, according to Finnish scientists, is approximately nine to twelve days, where the maximum relaxation is reached around the eighth day.
According to Carmen Binnewies in conversation with the portal "Welt", the relaxation effect of a vacation lasts for a maximum of three weeks. Therefore, those who take more vacations can also relieve stress more often throughout the year. Shorter vacations mean less stress before departure and minimize the risk of getting sick on vacation. Frequent vacations offer more opportunities for anticipation, which also has a stress-reducing effect.
Culture in the Right Amount and Joint Activities
Moreover, one should not overload oneself with cultural activities on vacation. The so-called Stendhal Syndrome describes symptoms such as hallucinations, panic attacks, or delusional thoughts that can be triggered by an "overdose" of cultural impressions. Therefore, a balanced mix of culture and relaxation is advisable to truly enjoy the trip.
Physical activities and shared experiences contribute to recovery. Whether camping with the family or a wellness vacation with daily massages - such activities promote well-being. Intimate moments on vacation can also increase happiness through the release of Oxytocin and reduce stress. Various surveys show that many travelers particularly value these aspects of their vacation.
Engaging in passive activities during vacation, such as taking a poolside nap or listening to the ocean, can significantly contribute to stress reduction and improve overall well-being. By minimizing smartphone usage and turning it off for a few hours a day, travelers can enhance the relaxation effect of their vacation.
Vacations don't always need to be long to be relaxing. According to Finnish scientists, taking several shorter vacations throughout the year, with an ideal duration of nine to twelve days, can lead to maximum relaxation and help relieve stress more frequently.
