Did you know travel matters to our health? A recent report has shown that Americans who spent most of their vacation days traveling are at least 20 percent happier with their personal relationships, and 56 percent happier with their health and well-being than those who travel with little or none of their vacation time. Taking a vacation is more than just being away from home for a few days relaxing. There are many known benefits, but it seems like today; society makes you think that taking time off work turns you into a slacker. That is not true at all. In fact, there is evidence that proves that taking a vacation actually can make you more productive at work, and a change in routine boosts creativity. You come back feeling refreshed and relaxed. If you don’t vacation, you will end up cranky and burned out. Taking a vacation is the ultimate way to unwind, recharge and kick up your feet. We all know it’s not always a stress-free start though. That’s why it’s important to practice healthy habits. If you’re like me, you have list after list of what to pack, and you’re worried you might forget something. It can get to be overwhelming before you even get to your vacation destination. Sundance Vacations helps take stress away with these convenient checklists to help make sure you have everything you need. Let’s face it, there are some times we can never feel truly relaxed but here are some great tips to tips to help you recharge and reduce stress while on vacation. . after all, that’s why we go on vacation… to RELAX!
MENTAL HEALTH:
Recharge and reduce stress while on vacation! It’s important to take time to care for your own mental health, even when you’re on vacation. When I’m vacationing with Sundance Vacations the first thing, I like to do is disconnect myself from the outside world. That means putting my phone on airplane mode, so I can still access my camera while ditching social media and unnecessary phone calls. I also love to take time for myself early in the morning when the rest of the world is still sleeping. I wake up early to greet the day and go for a walk. My phone is on silent, there’s no music, no kids, no distractions. Just me and the outdoors. If you have never taken a walk by yourself on the beach early in the morning, you’re really missing out on the tranquility! I find it refreshing to find a bench somewhere and just observe nature and my surroundings. Watching the world wake up is a reward. You get to watch the sun rise, and the animals and critters wake up and start their day. As early morning fades, you will notice everything go from calm and peaceful, to hectic and busy. I think it’s important to get a calm start to your morning! Doing this really sets the tone for the day and will help you recharge and reduce stress while on vacation.
EATING HEALTHY:
Had you ever wondered how to eat healthy, and decided not to once you found out what it involves? You’re not alone in that. It means you have to eat a variety of foods to give you the nutrients you need to maintain your health and you might not like variety! (These nutrients include protein, carbohydrates, fat, water, vitamins and minerals.) Well, I found a recipe that I enjoy very well, and am asked to bring back to future gatherings. It also falls into the meaning of eating healthy. It’s easy to make and holds a lot of variety. Here it is and hope you enjoy!
Cowboy Caviar
Ingredients: Dressing:
Veggies: ½ cup brown sugar
1 Red pepper ½ cup apple cider vinegar
1 Green pepper 1 cup vegetable oil
1 Red onion
3 to 4 celery sticks Other:
1 – 11oz can Shoe peg corn Scoops Tortilla chips
1 – 15oz can black eyed peas
1 – 15oz can black beans
Instructions:
Mix dressing ingredients in a 2 Quart saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and let cool. Place dressing in a small container and cool overnight.
Open the canned vegetables and drain. Set aside. Chop the peppers, onion and celery. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl and add dressing. Serve with tortilla chips.
RELAXATION:
In today’s day and age, we all know it can be hard to put our phones away and disconnect from technology. An easy way to help yourself disconnect and relax is to set rules for when you should be on your cell phone while on vacation. In my opinion, cell phones should be used for three things, and these three things only. To take pictures, check the weather, and listen to music. Other than those three rules, you shouldn’t have to worry about any side distractions.
Relaxation is defined as: the act of being rested, calm or less tense. We all know it’s easy to get caught up in the craziness we call life. That’s why it’s important to take your time, go slowly, and make time to do nothing. If you feel yourself moving too fast, STOP and take a second to breathe.
EXCERSIZE:
We all know getting away from reality is good for the soul, but getting away from your normal workout routine is good for the body too. Whether you’re vacationing at the beach or on a mountain getaway, exercising is something you can do almost everywhere! If you’re like me, then you might not want to have a full-blown workout while on vacation. For me, the best way to exercise while on vacation with Sundance Vacations is by walking. If you’re at the beach you can soak up the sun, hear the waves crash, and feel the sand through your toes, all while “exercising.” Believe it or not, walking in soft sand is a great workout and burns more calories. When at a mountain getaway, the sights and sounds are practically reward in itself! If you ask me, that’s not a bad way to exercise! Remember, you’re on vacation, so it’s okay to slack a little!
You deserve a vacation. You’ve been working day after day and stuck in the same routine. Cleaning the house, walking the dog, driving to practice, grocery shopping and taking care of the kids, takes a toll on us, and it will all be there when you get back from vacation. Take the time and create memories with your friends and family. Actually, be in the moment and try not to be distracted by today’s technology. You will thank me later.
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