Relax and Rejuvenate: 8 Ways to Beat Stress During Vacation Amidst Crisis
- By Leonie Zimmermann
- 5 Min
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In today's age of relentless news feeds, it's getting tougher than ever to truly unwind, even on that dreamy beach vacation or quaint mountain retreat. Instead of a much-needed break, all we often experience is exhaustion and stress. It seems we've forgotten how to truly relax. With the pandemic causing an unprecedented surge in stress levels, as per a study by Techniker Krankenkasse, it's high time we relearn the art of relaxation.
So, how do we unwind in these tough times? Here are eight tips to help you relax and rejuvenate during your summer vacation amidst crises:
Focus on the present moment
Mindfulness has been gaining enormous popularity for a reason. It's about being fully present and letting go of the past and the future. Mindfulness not only has positive effects on our energy levels but also on our health. Practicing mindfulness exercises like meditation and yoga can help reduce pain, stress, and symptoms of depression, as per studies. So, take a few deep breaths, sit back, and focus on the now instead of the mounting anxiety about the next crisis wave.
Disconnect from your smartphone
Your smartphone might not be the ideal companion when it comes to relaxation. It brings along endless social media drama, a barrage of negative news, and the feeling of always being available. Enter digital detox - the key to recharging in today's digitally driven world. It's not about cutting off all connections for weeks but rather taking short, targeted breaks to help you catch your breath. Because, as a lecture by Alexander Markowetz, professor of computer science at the University of Bonn, points out, the long-term effects of technology on our mental health are still unknown.
Reunite with friends
As they say, good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget. Wanted: Good friends to join you on your vacation. According to a Canadian study, spending time with people we care about significantly boosts our well-being. Why? Because we receive emotional support and can truly be ourselves. This, in turn, reduces the stress hormone cortisol, as proven by Professor Markus Heinrichs of the University of Freiburg in a study.
Fill up on 'brain food'
A healthy diet can help you recharge and feel revitalized. Bananas are rich in magnesium, a mineral crucial for maintaining a balanced nervous system. Cocoa helps lower blood pressure and inhibits the release of cortisol. Dark chocolate, in particular, contains the protein building block tryptophan, which helps combat stress and boosts mood. So, go ahead and indulge in a piece of dark chocolate!
Take a power nap
A midday nap might have been despised during your childhood days, but it can be a great way to restore your energy reserves, especially during times of crisis. Taking a short nap can help lower blood pressure and relieve the cardiovascular system, as per American researchers. But remember, hitting the snooze button more than once defeats its purpose.
Explore nature
Nature is a healer, as ancient healing practices have long claimed. Spending time in a natural setting can help reduce stress, boost the immune system, and even alleviate symptoms of depression, according to a study by the University of Parma. So, take a hike, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the woods, or simply sit by the beach to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries.
Get moving
Don't be a couch potato during your vacation! Regular exercise helps reduce stress and boosts mood, as endorphins and serotonin, two happiness-inducing hormones, are released during exercise. Moreover, it strengthens the body's stress response system in the long run. You don't have to hit the gym hard - even small changes can make a difference, such as opting for a bike ride instead of a car or a walk instead of a bus to the beach.
Do what feels right
Vacation is the perfect opportunity to put yourself first and do what you truly enjoy. So, whether it's the beach, the mountains, or a quiet corner in the park, find your happy place and spend some quality time there. Indulge in your favorite hobbies, go for a bike ride, or take a long, drawn-out nap. Whatever makes you feel good, do it!
Anxiety and stress skyrocketed during the pandemic, but that doesn't mean you can't find ways to unwind during your vacation. With these tips, you can create a stress-free vacation plan tailored to your needs and preferences, ensuring you return from vacation feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
References:
- University of Michigan
- Study
- DKV Report "How Healthy Does Germany Live?"
- Stress Study of Techniker Krankenkasse "Relax, Germany!"
- University of Freiburg, Study
- The Commission has also been consulted on the following issues: mental-health, workplace-wellness, health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, science.
- Incorporating elements that promote mental health, such as mindfulness exercises, into workplace wellness programs could significantly improve employee well-being and productivity.
- A comprehensive approach to health and wellness, integrating physical fitness and exercise, mental health support, and a focus on lifestyle choices, is essential for overall well-being and stress reduction.
