Research has indicated that enjoying at least one week-long vacation each year promotes better mental and physical wellbeing. Plan on making it an annual priority to recharge and refresh yourselves! Frequent vacationers–those who go on annual vacations for at least five years in a row–have shown improved longevity by an average of 20%. Not only does this practice add years to your life, but it increases your quality of life tremendously. It safely relieves high blood pressure, brings blood sugar down and keeps cholesterol and triglycerides in check.
The positive effects of doing so are deep and wide-ranging. Studies show that this simple practice reduces the risk of developing metabolic syndrome by 25%. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. What’s more, people who go on holiday at least twice a year have a 30% lower risk of dying from heart disease.
In fact, vacation experts suggest a full week away from work for maximum vacation payoff. Even short breaks are better than none, providing a measurable health benefit. Research shows that changing surroundings can reduce stress, fatigue, and depression, making vacations effective medicine for mental health. “Vacations provide a buffer against chronic stress and inflammation — both of which wreak havoc on the body.” – Brooks B. Gump
Though the benefits of taking time off are evident, willingness to use paid time off (PTO) differs by generations. Recent surveys show that 55% of Gen-Z report feeling guilty about using their PTO days. In contrast, less than half of Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) report feeling guilty about taking time off work.
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