Why a Fall or Winter Vacation Works So Well
By Sandy Schroeder
As we sweep into fall, many of us may admit we love/hate the festive season ahead. One holiday swirl after another may leave us smiling but limp by December. Just as you finish packing away the Halloween costumes, you have to find the right turkey. Then before you know it you will be shopping for gifts and working your way through a string of New Year's parties. If you can relate, this may be the year to strategically insert some vacation time.
Between Halloween and Thanksgiving, or in between Christmas and New Years, there might be a week or two that would help everyone in your family keep their balance.
Researchers say taking at least three weeks of vacation every year may help you live longer. Recent research tracked some 1,200 male executives for 40 years. They found eating healthy, exercising and not smoking are all good health choices, but taking vacations count for more when it comes to longevity. The ones who did not take vacations were almost 40 percent more likely to die young.
Forbes suggests you get creative to make it the best holiday season ever.
How to Make It Happen
Call a family meeting to find out how everyone feels about fall or winter vacations. Your kids may love the idea of getting away. Your spouse may see it as a stress reduction-plus, and you may welcome the relief from the constant holiday pace.
Check the schedules in your job to see how time off might work. If the coast is clear, start planning a vacation break.
Do the homework with maps, weather reports, available lodging and transportation to create a low-key trip that works to get you away without a lot of hassle. Then pack light and keep everything relaxed as you slip in a simple holiday vacation.
- Indulge in your favorite winter sport
- Visit grandparents or friends for a special holiday celebration
- Find a cabin or shore retreat that’s easy to do
- Do a yoga or other fitness focus vacation
- Go somewhere totally new for all of you
- Find a spot where everybody can do their own thing to decompress
You will know you made the right decision when you post that “out of office” response and feel a surge of anticipation. This may be the best holiday season ever.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in St. Peters, Mo.