Between getting to the airport, trying to find the hotel and cramming in time to see all the sights, vacations can be stressful. The good thing is there are ways to counter the pressures of vacation, including planning downtime and turning off notifications. Keep reading below for travel relaxation tips to your next vacation truly feel like one. Let go of the idea that you have to have a perfect itinerary.
Sure, there are some must-dos when traveling, such as seeing the Taj Mahal or eating crepes in France. Instead, try to space out activities with plenty of time to rest in between. Start preparing for the big travel day in advance. Pack your bags the day or night before. Plan your travel to and from the airport, and research the gate location for the flight. And arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. The hardest struggle of vacation for most people is leaving work behind.
Avoid this by turning off all work-related notifications, and letting people know in advance that you are unavailable. If checking in is necessary, then set time to respond to emails and then turn work off for the rest of the day and stick to it.
Tourist attractions such as the Empire State Building and the Vatican see more than 3 million people each year. That translates to a lot of standing in crowds and waiting in lines. Exercise is a natural stress reliever. Finding time to get active may be hard during vacation, but even a little bit helps.
According to the ADAA , just five minutes of aerobic exercise can signal the brain to release anxiety-fighting endorphins. Consider hitting up the hotel gym, going on a walk or enrolling in a local workout class. Meditation is a great way to de-stress and clear your mind. Just like exercise, even just a short time spent meditating can make a difference.
