Surprising Health Benefits from the Vacation You Took this Summer: Four reasons why taking a break is critical to your health
8/23/2023
You may be surprised to learn that the benefits of your summer vacation went well beyond having a good time. It actually helped you reduce stress levels and decrease the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Time off also is associated with greater happiness and improved job performance when you return to the office. And, while we all know a little time away from work is critical to health and well-being, 55% of Americans fail to use all of their paid time off given by employers.
According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), 745,000 people died in 2016 from stroke and heart disease that was associated to some degree with working long hours. The study also found those who work more than 55 hours per week are at a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from heart disease than those working 35 - 40 hours a week.
“Rest and recovery is important to your physical and mental health and that includes short breaks during regular days and totally disconnecting by taking a vacation from time to time,” says Erin Duff, FNP-BC, a nurse practitioner who specializes in cardiovascular medicine at Northwest Medical Group – Cardiology in Knox. “There is a large body of evidence that shows your body and brain need time to recharge. When we fail to take time off, we are more likely to suffer burnout, frustration, stress and even serious health issues.”
Duff shares four health benefits of taking a vacation:
- Better heart health: Taking yearly vacations (along with mini breaks here and there) can help reduce the risk of dying from heart disease according to a study by the National Library of Medicine. Additionally, people are more likely to participate in physical activities like swimming or hiking when they are on vacation which helps improve cardiovascular health.
- Boosted brain power: Being in a state of relaxation helps improve the capacity to learn. Traveling to a new place or experiencing a different culture can help deepen mindfulness and awaken more creative thought.
- Reduced stress: If chronic stress is left unmanaged, it can lead to devastating consequences for your health. According to the American Psychological Association, vacations help reduce stress by removing people from environments and activities that are associated with stress or anxiety.
- Improved sleep: Sleep is essential for cardiovascular health, proper brain function and a strong immune system, but one in three U.S. adults doesn’t get enough. Working late into the night by responding to emails and checking phone notifications negatively impacts sleep. Vacation is an opportunity to break those habits and get more restful sleep.
“On vacation there’s time to unwind, try new activities and reconnect with yourself and loved ones which contributes to your overall health and wellbeing,” says Duff.
To schedule an appointment with Duff at her Knox office, call 219-324-0014.
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