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Simple Ways to Reduce Vacation Stress
How to Reap the Mental Benefits of Your Time Off

By Henry Moore
Orchid Independent Contributor

​There’s no time like the present, they say. However, so many of us spend long hours at the office instead of fulfilling our needs and desires.

Despite what our American culture tells us, working hard isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be, and with countless to-do lists, overtime at work, and relentless personal demands, it’s no wonder why we have become so stressed.

Thanks to technology, we can connect and unwind with the swipe of a finger; yet, we are also more disconnected than ever before. For this reason, taking a vacation is one of the last vestiges of hope we have to recharge and rediscover our true selves.

It’s also a great way to simply kick back and relax, especially if you spend your time off practicing mindfulness by enjoying each individual moment on your adventure away (or at home!). Here are some ways to reap the rewards of taking time off for yourself and discover the perks of a stress-free holiday.

Perfection Is Overrated

If you only take a vacation every once in a blue moon, then you’ll probably think that everything must be in precise order for you to enjoy it. However, it’s the uncertainty that can often make for an enjoyable time off.

Whether you decide to go for a day trip or an extended international excursion, going with the flow is what makes a vacation so enticing. Itineraries are great tools, but they can be a bit cumbersome, because as in life, holidays don’t always go as planned.

Incorporate some flexibility by going off the beaten path and letting the day guide you.   Perhaps you were in the mood for sipping martinis on the beach, but upon arrival, you’ve become inspired to become a bit more active. However your plans turn out, minimizing expectations will lead to less anxiety and frustration, according to the University College of London as reported by InfoPedia.

Don’t Forget the Essentials

While packing, don’t forget necessary items, such as medications, credit cards and other essentials that you may need. Creating a checklist of things to take with you will not only ensure that nothing goes forgotten, but will also save you money and time in the long run.

Make sure your home is secure by creating the illusion of occupancy during your time away. Keep porch and indoor lights on, park a neighbor’s car in the driveway, and install deadbolts on all locks. Doing so will help to deter intruders from entering your home.

Additionally, putting a stop on any incoming mail will eliminate identity theft. Instead, have mail forwarded electronically to your inbox so that you can stay updated on any correspondence.

Go to Uncharted Territory

Sites and sounds can be highly exhilarating, but battling the crowds to and fro can induce feelings of anxiety, according to Scientific American. Avoid famous destinations at the height of tourist season and head to a marginally favored town instead, which will allow you to take in the view sans the hurried crowd.

Better yet, nix the whole idea of a travel-based vacation altogether, and enjoy a
“staycation” right in the comforts of your city. While you may be tempted to spend your staycation on the couch or in bed, the point is to enjoy the amenities around you so that you feel like you’re genuinely getting away during your time off.

Enjoy activities that fill your fun quota without the use of any technology so you and your family can focus on each other. That means no cell phones, work calls, emails, or checking in at work so you can enjoy what truly matters.

Vacations should be mandatory, not a privilege. While vacations enable one to see the world from a different perspective, time off is also a way to connect to yourself.  Keep these handy tips in mind for the next time you plan time away. You’ll discover a less hectic world and a calmer you.