Tuesday, August 3, 2010

The Fresh Five: Five Simple Tips for a More Relaxing Vacation


Vacation should be inherently relaxing right? Well of course, but the truth is many people come home or head back to the office more hassled than when they left.

As summer, unfortunately, starts to wind down make sure you get the most out of your next vacation by being strategic about it, staying mindful, and going by our simple tips.


#1: Pack Light

First and foremost, if you can avoid checking luggage, do so. Nothing will make you feel breezier than avoiding that baggage carousel.
A little organization in advance can go a long way. We recommend packing specific outfits for each day, with a few key pieces you can mix and match. Avoid bringing two of anything (sandals, sweaters, dresses) and resist the last minute impulse to throw something in "just in case."

#2: Unpack

Ok so you packed light! First step to a mindful and relaxing vacation! But don't let all your hard work go to waste by shuffling through your bag for the length of your stay. Even if you're just sneaking in a weekend getaway, unpack! It will make you feel connected to your surroundings, more at home, and will help you get out the door and on to your adventures more quickly in the morning.

#3: Hit the Spa

If you're staying at a hotel, look into the options at the hotel spa. If not, do a little pre-vacation research and find day spas in the areas with good reviews. Reserve a day for yourself (or sneak away from the pack with a travel buddy) and make an appointment for a massage or aromatherapy treatment. It's a splurge you can feel good about because the benefits of massage therapy stay with you and are proven to release chemicals that relax your nervous system.

#4: Unplug and Be Present

Commit to avoiding things that take you out of the moment. Every day our bodies are bombarded with noise from TV, internet, radio, music, city noise, and on and on. Studies have shown that eventually, all this noise starts to change the the structure of our cells so give yourselves a breather and commit to some seriously unplugged time. You've heard it before but we'll say it again: your world will not collapse if you don't check your email for 24 hours.

The trick to truly enjoying your unplugged time? Make a few simple arrangements in advance: let people know, set up email out-of-office messages, and get any gaps in coverage covered before you take off so you can rest easy and stay in the moment.


#5: Try Something New

Learning something new can be just as relaxing as not doing anything at all. This does not mean having to leave your comfort zone and take a huge risk - anything from skydiving out of an airplane to learning a new language is suitable. Bring some excitement and exhilaration to your vacation as you do something you have never tried before. Honestly, it can be even the mere change from a spa lotion to spa oil. You determine your own level of daringness and go for it! Think about how accomplished and refreshed you will feel afterwards!

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