Getting the Most out of your Summer Vacation!

Getting the Most out of your Summer Vacation

Authored by Matthew Mitlas

Can you believe that summer is already here?! The time that everybody looks forward to for one reason: vacation! Ironically, vacations can end up being more stressful than your daily life. With the distractions of finances, children, travelling, etc, it is hard to remember that you are actually on vacation and that you do not need to stress! This vacation is for you and the other with whom you share it- let it be peaceful and harmonious. When you finally get around to taking that well-deserved break from your daily chores, keep these things in mind:

1. Plan ahead.If it makes you feel comfortable, create a general outline of what you want to do each day of your vacation with the freedom and openness to be spontaneous! Brainstorm activities for the kids, ways to get alone time for yourself and with your loved ones, and things to do as an entire family. The options are endless and do not have to cost money! For example, go to a superstore to pick out items for a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery in each other’s company as a family activity.

2. Unwind at the end of your day.Take a hot bath or shower to relax your muscles. Follow with some light stretching or yoga poses such as knees to chest and head to knee pose. When you get into bed, sit up and take a few moments to breathe. Center yourself and connect with those around you.Remind yourself that you are on vacation and that you have permission to be stress free! Before going to sleep, tell those around you that you love them and that you are looking forward to a good night’s rest and to the next day.

3. Release all of your expectations of what a vacation is “supposed” to be!The reason vacations end up being stressful and disappointing is because of your expectations. Take a moment and ask yourself what you want out of this vacation and how you can get it. Don’t feel like you have to plan your days filled with activities and costly events. Leave room to just be and to enjoy the presence of others. Go with flow and see where this spontaneity takes you!

4. Check in with yourself when you start to fight the feelings of stressIf you begin to feel stressed, your automatic response will be something like, “Wait, I am on vacation. I should not be stressed right now. This is not what I expected…” This attitude will just keep you in the cycle of stress. Instead, don’t create that civil war in yourself. Let yourself be how you are, to feel how you feel, and to be open to its transformation. “Okay, I am feeling a little stressed right now. I’m just going to breathe and to remind myself that I am on vacation!” Smile!

Keep these tips in mind and you will be sure to have the most relaxing vacation ever! We wish you a fun-filled summer where peace and harmony exists in you and all around you. Enjoy!

*For information regarding our plethora of classes, workshops, and mind/body healing techniques which aid in the healing process of loss, visit www.r3wellnesscenter.com.