8 Benefits of Choosing a Vacation or Embracing a Staycation!

At Texas Medical Center, we take a holistic approach to wellness that celebrates self-care and family time. Summer is finally here! During this time of year, it’s a beautiful opportunity to spend more time outdoors, connect with nature or take a well-deserved break from the routine with your loved ones. This blog post lists eight essential benefits you may gain by scheduling a summer getaway or just taking a Staycation here in our beautiful city of El Paso:

Reduce Stress Levels 

Stress is a significant problem in America. Our busy lifestyles always pull our attention in multiple directions. It can often feel like there is always too much to do but not enough time in a day. Although some stress can be a healthy motivator, too much stress increases your risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A summer break or a healthy staycation allows you to take some well-deserved time off and stop worrying about your to-do list for a little while. Even just a three- or four-day weekend can significantly lower stress levels. During this time, it’s a good idea to participate in activities that bring you joy. Whether reading a book, going to the pool, or hiking at Castner Range, it’s best to get outside, boost sun exposure, and enjoy the warm weather. It is also important to take proper care of yourself when spending time outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Get Better Sleep

Up to 40% of American adults have trouble falling asleep at some point. Insomnia can disrupt your daily life, making concentrating or being fully present difficult. You can catch up on much-needed Zs during summer vacation and reset your sleep schedule. Here are some tips for rebooting your sleep over this summer:

• Avoid screens (TV, phone, laptop, etc.) at least one hour before bed.
• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine, like stretching and meditating. 
• Head to bed at the same time every night.
• If you can’t sleep, get up after 30 minutes, and do a quiet activity that helps soothe your mind, like reading a book or practicing some gentle yoga.

Improve Your Physical Health

Summer is all about getting outside and enjoying the sun. You can swim at a community or hotel pool, go hiking, spend time outdoors with your family and pets, and enjoy being active more. During our busy working schedules, most of us spend much of our day seated in front of a computer. While we may not be able to eliminate desk work from our lives entirely, we can combat long periods of sitting with some extended activity. Even just 10 minutes of physical activity can elevate your mood and reduce your risk of health problems.

Spend Time With Loved Ones 

Family time is one of the best ways to combat stress, depression, anxiety, and more. Close relationships with loved ones can help prevent many mental health disorders. For example, consider ways to connect with your loved ones this summer; you could visit somewhere new or focus on relaxing together at home with backyard BBQs and movie nights.

Whichever way you choose to unwind, the most important thing is making room in your schedule to spend more time together.

Become More Patient

People who take time to recharge have a better time coping with stress. This means you can return to work rejuvenated and be more patient in your relationships. Being patient helps reduce stress, lowering your risk of stress-related health problems.

Summer is the perfect time to disconnect from some of your everyday problems and enjoy uninterrupted “me time.” When you take time to care for yourself, it’s much easier to be there for others, too.

Improve Cognitive Function

Restful acts make it easier for your mind to function. Doing actions mindfully—focusing entirely on the present moment—eases stress and anxiety. As a result, your stress hormone levels decrease. Because these hormones have a sedative effect, lowering them makes it easier for you to think, concentrate, and problem-solve.

If you wrestle with symptoms of burnout, a vacation is the perfect time to step back and recharge. Consider taking a digital detox where you avoid social media and heavy electronic use for a week.

Reconnect With Your Body, Mind, and Soul

In all the hustle and bustle of work, family, and life, many of us are caught up in our thoughts and endless responsibilities. It can be challenging to stay active, move regularly, and make sure we’re giving our bodies the care they need and deserve. You can prioritize activities that are good for your entire being. Strengthening the mind-body connection can improve your mood, fight off depression and anxiety, regulate stress, and even help reduce physical pain.

Mindfulness is the best way to strengthen your mind-body connection. Mindful activities allow you to focus on the sensory experience- what you hear, see, touch, and feel in the present moment. Doing some yoga outdoors, taking a slow, peaceful walk, and practicing tai chi are good ways to enhance your mind-body connection.

A Summer Break Can Help You Stay Healthy All Year

It may only be a short vacation, but a summer vacation is a great way to give yourself time to relax, decompress, and rejuvenate yourself. The start of a new season is an excellent time to introduce healthier habits into your routine. Some activities you practice during summer could become a part of your everyday routine. However, it’s never the wrong time to discover fun forms of exercise and self-care that help you stay happy and healthy!

We appreciate the time you took to read our posts and look forward to continuing to assist you with everything related to your health coverage. Call us today at (915) 781-1614 to get a consultation free of charge.