How to Adjust After Returning From Vacation
By Paul Rothbart
There's nothing like getting away from the daily grind for a while. Vacations are invigorating, necessary, and fun. There is an abundance of research that shows the importance of regular vacations for mental and physical health. However, all good things must come to an end. This is where it can get tricky. After a week or two away in a exotic or fun location, sleeping late, and just lounging around whenever you get the urge, it can be difficult to come home and get back to the old routine. Here are tips to help adjust from vacation mode to everyday mode more easily.
Return a Day Early
Naturally you want your vacation to last as long as possible but coming home the day before going back to work can make for a sudden and stressful transition. Give yourself a day at home between vacation and work. You can get used to being back in your house without having to go to work. Catch up on some household chores to start to ease back into the usual routine. This extra will smooth out the adjustment.
Don't Do Too Much Your First Day Back
Depending on what you do for a living, this tip may not be feasible. But if you can, don't jump into a hectic schedule on your first day back. A transition that drastic will be extremely stressful and may send you screaming into the street. It's better to take a few essential tasks to allow yourself time to get back in the groove. Don't schedule appointments for the first day back or jump into intense projects. You will be back to full speed before you know it.
Care for Yourself
For the first several days back, be sure to get extra sleep, take frequent breaks, and eat well. This is good advice in general, but when coming back from a vacation, you need extra care to ease your body and mind away from time off to full-time work. This includes chores around the house. Don't jump right into painting a room or fixing the roof. Easy does it.
Think About Your Vacation
You no doubt created some happy memories. Utilize them. It doesn't have to make you feel bad to remember your time off. Be grateful that you were able to get away to relax and enjoy yourself. This will revitalize you and make getting back to the grind much easier.
Vacations are one of life's greatest joys. Coming back from one is not so happy. But getting back to your usual routine is important. Follow these tips to make the transition easier and allow you to perform at top capacity until your next vacation.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arvada, Colo.