12 Ways to Vacation Right & Recharge Your Mind

Vacations are meant to be relaxing and rejuvenating, but many people return from their vacations feeling even more exhausted and stressed. Studies show that Americans are not using their allotted vacation days effectively. Instead of overscheduling ourselves and trying to make our vacations epic, it’s important to prioritize relaxation and recharge. Here are some innovative ideas to help you make the most of your vacation time and ensure that you come back feeling refreshed.

Before You Go

• Take care of the home front. Water plants, board the pets, settle bills and complete household chores. The more you do before your holiday, the less you’ll have to worry about upon returning home.
• Wrap up any work obligations and communication. Whether it’s finalizing a work project or turning on your out of office message, the last thing you wanna be doing on vacation is work.
• Make lists! The last thing you want is forgetting documentation or travel essentials. Packing checklists are a must and I never embark on a trip without one.
• Have realistic expectations. Depending on the timing, tourists seasons and the trips purpose, will yield different results. A family trip to Disneyland will feel very different than an all-inclusive adults only spa retreat. Know what you’re getting into and adjust accordingly.

While You’re Away

• Actually unplug. I promise that Instagram, TikTok and whatever other social media you enjoy will be there when you return from holiday. Same goes for work projects and communication. Live in the moment, get off your phone and enjoy the vacation you’ve worked so hard for.
• Bring your healthy habits with you. If you enjoy biking, hiking or reading, there’s no reason to abandon those habits because you’re in a new environment.
• Minimizing your travel. I can’t stress this enough. Traveling can be stressful, especially in the heights of tourist seasons or in areas with limited modes of transportation. Streamline your traveling to save time, money and your piece of mind.
• Don’t over-plan. There are trips that do need significant preparation while some allow you to simply fly in and allow spontaneity to blossom. Know the difference and don’t overdo it!
• Don’t make too many commitments. It’s not necessary to do something every single day of your vacation. Allow a couple of days to do whatever comes to mind over breakfast.

When You Return

• Post vacation recharge. Schedule in a day or two to settle down and unwind from your travels. A buffer zone per se.
• Normalize your sleep routine. Traveling can really disrupt one’s sleeping routine so allow your body to get back on track.
• Combat those post-travel blues. Returning home from vacation can feel daunting but I believe if we bring back some appreciation, wanderlust and excitement we carried along our travels back home, it’ll leave you with a lot of joy and gratitude.