Taking a holiday is crucial for our mental and physical health

Rather than looking on a holiday as a treat, consider it as essential. Science proves that taking time off is vital for our physical and mental health – all the more so given the stresses and strains that 2020 has brought us. You probably aren’t planning a holiday abroad this year, but taking a break (a proper break) is a must…

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There is no substitute for having a holiday or break. Don’t think having an otherwise healthy lifestyle will compensate for working too hard and not taking holidays, say the experts…

Important for your heart health

Cardiologist Prof Timo Strandberg, of the University of Helsinki, researched the effect of taking time off on heart health. In his study of middle-aged businessmen over 40 years, he found that men who took three weeks or less annual vacation had a 37% greater chance of dying than those who took more than three weeks. The length of the holiday was irrelevant – the crucial bit was taking a proper break. And it made no difference whether men were on drugs to lower their blood pressure.

Crucial for your nervous system

Taking your foot off the peddle and switching off from your day-to-day pressures takes time, however. The odd day here or there is just not enough – some experts say it takes 10 days for our parasympathetic nervous system to fully kick in. This is the state of calmness and balance (homeostasis) where our immune, cardiovascular and digestive system can revert to optimum functioning rather than being in a state of adrenalin-fuelled readiness (known as fight or flight).

Essential to recharge your batteries

Making a clear distinction between downtime and work/normal life is key. Those who do not organise a clear separation between work and free time research shows are less likely to participate in activities that could help them relax and recover from their day-to-day demands. Those who are all work and no play simply end up more exhausted and less productive, according to a report in the Journal of Business and Psychology. So ringfence your time is the message: this year especially you need to take a break from the relentless Covid-19 headlines!

And treasure the memories…

Neuroscientists also stress that it’s important to remember your breaks positively. Don’t dwell on the mosquito bites you endured, or the late flight, or the day all arrangements went pear-shaped! Treasure that one day that was really fun, the sunset moment that was magical, the laughter maybe, or the calm and peace. All of our memories are stored in our brain with associated emotions, positive or negative, and relishing the enjoyable parts promotes production of our ‘happy hormones’ serotonin and dopamine. Not only are these uplifting mentally, they help strengthen the immune system.

Take clear time off, get away, down tools, do something different, relish the golden moments. Science proves you could live longer! And you’ll certainly live more happily

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