We have grown up in a world where there is always something to do or somewhere to go with the nagging thought of never having time to simply enjoy ourselves on a day-to-day basis. The solution, take more vacations.
Although economically it may not seem reasonable, it has been proven that taking at least one vacation a year is better for your health. As a young adult in a society where time seems to run out, it is essential to have moments that escape reality. A little rest and relaxation is always good for the soul.
Where can you go that will take your mind off of everything? Whether it’s the new job that’s weighing you down, or 18 hours you took this semester, you need a moment to breathe in the hustle and bustle of life.
A New York Times article quoted information from the Framingham Heart Study that began in 1948. This study essentially monitored the effects on women in the workplace based on the amount of vacation time they took.
Elaine Eaker, a co-author in the study, found that women who took a vacation at least twice a year versus women who took one only every six years or so were much less likely to develop coronary heart disease or have a heart attack.
Why are we often choosing to push ourselves past our limits in order to finish a job? Has a lifetime of being told to be the best finally gotten to our heads? Going to such extreme measures to amount to some level of success in the business world is toxic to the body, which reacts to stress in harmful ways. Not only does it put our senses on high alert, causing later long-term conditions, but it also has serious side effects that can disrupt our day-to-day life.
A list of different side effects can be found on HelpGuide.org in the article “Understanding Stress.” Some of those effects can include chronic pain, digestive trouble, skin issues, obesity and even depression. Do you really want your overall health to suffer simply to “get ahead?”
Through studies such as these, it is seen that stress, and an unbalanced lifestyle can lead to serious, if not fatal, effects. A life consumed with stress, pressure and constant work can not only do damage to one’s physical nature, but emotional as well.
It was stated earlier that depression is a common side effect of an overly stressful life.
Everyone knows a person who is always consumed with things to do and places to go. For most, a schedule like this would wear you out. Irritability and frustration are never qualities you want to embody. So do something about it. Are you the person who thinks they can take on the world without a break? Well, even God took a rest on the seventh day.
That should tell us something right there.
The benefits of vacations will hopefully outweigh the disadvantages in your own life. Taking this time off can “re-charge your batteries” per say and leave you feeling relaxed and ready for the work ahead of you. They also provide an opportunity to connect with those around you in which you desire to spend quality time with.
Anyone seen the movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation?” Of course we have, it’s a classic. They bonded probably more than most families could even imagine bonding. Those of us who chose to take time to relax tend to be more useful in the work place, providing more creativity and establishing an overall better performance as we are on the job.
Why not take a few days this year to treat yourself to a good time? Not many would object to lounging on the beach, hitting the slopes to let off some steam, or even taking a road trip to see your favorite band with your favorite friends. The world isn’t going to leave you behind if you disappear for a few moments out of the year.
Take advantage of vacation days.Keep your body and soul healthy and you may actually enjoy the days you spend in the office reaching for the top.
Sarah Ulmer is a sophomore majoring in communication. She can be contacted at [email protected].