Stressed? Burned-out? Mentally exhausted? You need a mental vacation. But how do you really get the rest you need when taking a vacation?
Nobody likes the feeling of going on vacation and coming back feeling like they need another vacation. In today’s world, the digital age, it’s becoming more and more difficult to really mentally switch off from our environments and ultimately our work in order to truly get the mental rest we need.
We spend an average of 5 hours a day glued to our phone screens, constantly texting, being visually stimulated or stressed. When was the last time you felt like you had a true mental vacation?
For most people, a vacation or long-term trip is really about resting more physically and mentally, doing more of what we love and leaving work and the stresses of everyday behind, however, things don’t always go that way. It’s getting harder and harder to switch off.
We are constantly being over-stimulated by our phones, and the people and situations around us but there are some things you can do to prepare that can help you mentally detox when on vacation, leaving you rested and ready for the next chapter.
Here are my top tips for really switching off, enjoying and really getting that mental rest you need.
Top Tips to Really Rest When Taking a Mental Vacation
Know Yourself
The trick for an amazing yet restful vacation is all about knowing yourself.
What do you need to really switch off and get some mental rest? What distracts you and makes you start thinking about work? How long does it normally take you to unwind and really switch off mentally?
We are all different and our answers to the above questions are all going to be different. What’s important is knowing yourself and your answers to the above questions and allowing yourself or giving yourself the time and capacity you need to unwind.
Select the Right Trip for You
When taking a mental vacation, the type of trip you take is really important.
Before you book your trip it might help to think about what kind of trip or vacation really makes you happy and most importantly allows you to get the mental rest you need.
Does a beach vacation bore you to a point that will have you reaching for your phone and checking work emails? Or perhaps road trips stress you out? I often find that working out what kind of trip lets you relax the most, both physically and mentally is the most beneficial thing you can do before your vacation.
The same goes for what to do during your vacation. Make sure you plan the right kind of trip that will keep you amused yet not bored. If you’re someone who constantly gets bored, make sure to plan activities for your vacation such as yoga classes, meditation, workouts, hiking and scuba diving etc.
Not only are they fun and great for your body and soul, but such activities also take your mind off home and work and can make you feel present and grounded. Equally, if you’re someone who prefers to not be active at all plan your trip with plenty of beach time, spa time and lots of healthy food and drink.
Surround Yourself with the Right People
The people we surround ourselves with have an immense impact on our mood and ability to rest both in life and on vacation. I realise that sometimes this is something we can’t choose i.e. if you have a family and small children.
If you’ve got a friend that you find more stressful than relaxing it’s probably not a great idea to take them on vacation with you.
Build friendships and relationships based on love and have a supportive circle of people around you that allows you to grow and thrive and who, when you need to, will also allow you to do what you need to unwind and completely switch off.
Read more: The Positive Effects of Traveling on Mental Health
Consider a Digital Detox
The age of social media, twenty-four-hour news and digital technology has brought its own few problems when it comes to having all the information we could want at our fingertips.
To truly disconnect we might have to put a few more boundaries into place to not be disturbed. Try putting your phone on aeroplane mode or turning off all notifications, especially work-related ones. Better still why not leave your phone in your hotel room for the day?
You may feel completely naked at first but potentially quite liberated later on. Being completely attached to social media, I know just how liberating and relaxing it can be to shut off all social media for a while and I highly recommend it.
Plan for When You Get Back Before You Go
There’s nothing worse to interrupt your mental rest than the constant thought of what awaits you at work when you get back. Before you leave for vacation make sure everything is done so you don’t have anything nagging at you in the back of your mind.
On the other hand, in order not to deal with the anxiety of what might await you upon your return, give yourself time to get back into it. If you can, come back from vacation a couple of days early to prepare.
Just knowing that you have those couple of days before going back to work can really put your mind at ease. Maybe just take a half-day on your first day back and ease yourself into it.
Focus on Experiences
Embracing the essence of your destination through curated experiences not only enriches your journey but also diverts your mind from everyday stresses, fostering relaxation.
Booking tours that resonate with your interests—whether it’s a historical walk through ancient ruins, a culinary adventure sampling local delicacies, or a nature hike in breathtaking landscapes—can significantly enhance your travel experience as well as rest for the mind.
These activities provide structured yet enjoyable ways to explore, ensuring you make the most of your time without the overwhelm of planning every detail.
They also offer unique opportunities to connect with local cultures and environments, deepening your appreciation and understanding of the world around you.
Remember, the goal of your vacation is to rejuvenate both body and mind; by focusing on experiences that truly captivate you, you’re more likely to return feeling refreshed and fulfilled.
Spend time Enjoying Your Surroundings – Top Mental Vacation Tip
Achieving mental rest on vacation can lie in the simple act of being present in your environment so take the time to truly absorb the beauty and uniqueness of your destination.
This might mean leisurely walks along a scenic coastline, sitting in a quaint café observing the hustle and bustle of local life, or finding a serene spot to watch the sunset.
By slowing down and appreciating the moment, you invite a sense of tranquility and connection to your surroundings, which is often lost in the rush of everyday life. Encourage yourself to disconnect from digital distractions and immerse fully in the physical experience of being somewhere new.
This mindfulness approach not only enriches your travel experience but also helps in resetting your mental state, leading to deeper relaxation and satisfaction.
Enjoy both Mental and Physical Activities
Incorporating activities that challenge you physically, such as hiking, swimming, or cycling, can invigorate your body and release endorphins, leading to a natural state of happiness and relaxation.
Equally important are mental activities that stimulate your curiosity and creativity. This could involve visiting museums, attending local music or arts events, or even participating in workshops where you can learn a new skill or craft.
These mental activities not only provide a rich cultural immersion but also allow you to disconnect from your usual routine, offering a refreshing perspective. By balancing physical exertion with intellectual stimulation, you ensure a holistic approach to your rest and rejuvenation.
How do you mentally escape on a mental vacation? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you.
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