Jessica
What activities do you look forward to the most when you go on vacation? It’s time to think long and hard about what you want out of your weekend, as your physical, mental and emotional health all stand to benefit from the beginning of your free time to the last day. Vacations are a necessary buffer to reduce the wear and tear of months of working and studying, giving you that essential breather to recover so you can get back to it in fine form. Museums, nationwide attractions and campgrounds are just a few of the resources you can turn to in order to make your vacation a success in every way, shape and form.
How Common Are Vacations?
Did you know the United States is known for having one of the lowest rates of vacation days around the world? Studies have shown Americans being some of the least likely people to take regular vacation time off, with many still checking e-mail or calling work even while they’re at the beach. Studies have shown 12% of American adults camping back in 2015 and, just two years prior, campers traveled an average distance of 186 miles for camping trips. When you seek out a vacation you’re seeking out more than just fun. You’re trying to stitch back together your exhausted physical, mental and emotional health.
How Can I Improve My Physical Health?
It’s important to know the physical health benefits of taking regular vacation time off. Stress is one of the most subtle and debilitating health killers around, affecting you over time and putting your physical and emotional health at risk when you least expect. Studies have shown the higher the stress, the lower the immune system — this means you have an increased risk of getting the common cold or the flu than those who are less stressed! When you lay on the beach for a tan or go on a walk through local attractions, you’re giving your physical health a bigger chance than it’s ever had before.
How Can I Improve My Emotional Health?
Good emotional health involves feeling secure, positive and relaxed. Likewise, feeling moody, uninterested and negative can have a big impact on your life. Regular vacation time off is the perfect antidote to a poor mood, perking you up through invigorating activities and more sleep than you remember getting in the past three months. An estimated seven million people will ride horses every year across the country, making it one of the most popular activities on vacation or a chill weekend. Similarly, there are nine million bike trips conducted every day for both work and recreational purposes.
How Can I Improve My Mental Health?
Do you worry about depression or anxiety? You’re not alone in the matter. Stress is one of the greatest contributing factors to ongoing rates of depression and anxiety in American adults, though it’s far from the only one — hereditary factors, recent life events and seasonal changes can also be a major influence. Depression is categorized by feelings of hopelessness, disinterest and constant negativity, while anxiety generally causes panic, racing thoughts and constant fear. Vacation time allows you the time to take care of your mental health first and foremost, reducing toxic stress and giving your mind a break.
What Activities Should I Do?
The world is your oyster. There are a plethora of fun activities you can engage in whether you’re taking a weekend off or an entire week to yourself. Florida is still one of the most popular states for vacation time and sees millions of visitors every summer. There are over 1,300 golf courses in Florida as we speak, with the tourism industry having an economic impact of at least $67 billion on the overall economy. There are zip lines, bike trails and a thriving downtown culture to dip your toes in when you visit. Consider your options before you start planning your vacation. Your health will thank you!
