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7 Tips on how to switch off on holiday and truly relax

Finally, vacation time is here—time to truly unwind and escape from the daily grind. However, achieving true relaxation often proves challenging, as our minds and bodies may not immediately switch off from the hustle and bustle. Thankfully, we’ve got 7 tips for you to help you ease into a state of rest and relaxation.

Why do we struggle to relax on vacation?

In today’s fast-paced world, our sympathetic nervous system is often in overdrive, keeping us in a constant state of alertness. This heightened state of stress can make it difficult for our parasympathetic system—the one responsible for relaxation—to take over. When we try to suddenly switch to relaxation mode, our nervous system can become unsettled, sometimes even leading to physical discomfort.

Here’s 7 tips on how you can help your system transition smoothly and fully enjoy your time off:

1. Transition your work mindset before you leave

Why it's important

A successful vacation starts with a mental shift. If you’re still wrapped up in work concerns, it’s gonna be hard to relax. By addressing work-related issues before you go, you can clear your mind for a genuine break.

How to do it?

2. Set clear boundaries with colleagues and clients

Why it's important

Setting boundaries helps prevent work from intruding on your vacation time. Clear communication ensures that you’re not bombarded with work issues while you’re trying to unwind.

How to do it?

3. Reduce screen time and digital distractions

Why it’s important

Reducing screen time helps you disconnect from work and digital distractions, contributing to a more restful and rejuvenating vacation.

How to do it?

4. Engage in self-care and creative activities

Why it’s important

Embracing self-care and creative activities can boost your well-being and provide a consistent sense of relaxation during your vacation.

How to do it?

5. Connect with nature

Why it’s important

Spending time in nature can uplift your mood, reduce stress, and provide a mental break from daily demands. It helps you reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. Nature has that natural soothing effect on us.

How to do it?

6. Practice deep breathing exercises

Why it’s important

Attention and breathing exercises help you relax. When you make your breathing deeper and slower, the heart rate and blood pressure drop. The nervous system gets a signal: everything is fine and safe. From there on you can go into resting mode.

How to do it?

7. Create a sense of safety and comfort

Why it’s important

Creating a secure environment helps your body and mind to fully unwind. Feeling safe and comfortable is crucial for deep relaxation. If you and the people around you feel safe, your body will feel ready to relax. On vacation you cannot always influence this. But even when the kids are annoying or if your partner is complaining you can still create safe moments for yourself.

How to do it?

Summary

Vacations are meant to be a time of complete relaxation, but transitioning from the constant hum of daily life to true relaxation can be challenging. Imagine stepping away from the pressures of work and everyday stress, finally allowing yourself the space to unwind. To truly embrace this shift, start by mentally preparing for your vacation, ensuring that you’ve addressed work responsibilities and set clear boundaries. This preparation frees your mind from lingering work concerns.

 

Once you’re on vacation, dive into practices that limit digital distractions and foster genuine relaxation. Engage in self-care by exploring creative outlets and maintaining a balanced routine, while also immersing yourself in nature to rejuvenate your spirit. Implement deep breathing exercises to signal your body that it’s time to relax, and create a comforting environment where you feel safe and at ease.

 

By blending these strategies—transitioning your mindset, setting boundaries, embracing digital detox, indulging in self-care, connecting with nature, practicing mindfulness, and ensuring safety—you’ll find it easier to let go of stress and fully savor your vacation. With these practices, you’ll not only escape the hustle but return feeling genuinely refreshed and renewed.

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