Take Time to Vacation!

Take time to vacation

Today I would like to talk about the necessity of vacationing. It’s important to take a break and spend time with your family. When you are overworked, with too much to do, you may notice a change in your sleep pattern, sleeping too much during the day, or not sleeping at nights. There is too much to do, and with all the things going on in the world, without a break, stress can take a toll on our minds and bodies. We are more likely to get sick, have accidents and complications, and feel depressed or anxious or irritable. In fact we can even encounter memory problems. Many other countries work fewer hours and have more weeks of vacation. A friend of mine in Canada receives eight weeks off per year. Mexicans are privy to a siesta break everyday! You can accomplish more in a reasonable 40 hour week than you can in a 50-60 hour week. Working longer, to the point of burn out, disconnects families and can take a toll of affects relationships with children and spouses. It’s important to learn how to relax and have fun with each other. Schedule activities because there’s tons to do. Teenagers and children may commit to vacations begrudgingly at first, but the time spent together will create lasting memories.

         Vacations don’t always run smoothly! Families will experience some contention, agitation, and irritation. My dad used to take my family on long car ride excursions; I remember the fights and silly jokes the most! They are fond memories now, even if they were trying at the time. Creating memories in the past allow joy in the present. Vacations help you get to know yourself, your likes and dislikes, strengths and strains. My family recently undertook a high ropes course, 60 feet in the air. All of us learned to help each other through, and we felt closer afterwards. The goal is to get out there and try things you normally would not do. Vacation doesn’t always mean relaxing on a beach, but taking new adventures, spending time outside, and experiencing quality time with family. There are even opportunities within, for mini vacations. Take a child aside and do something special with him/her alone. We must bond with different kids, in different times, with familiar but different activities. Allow each experience to become a memorable moment or a silly joke, no matter how simple or irritating!

        

The main point, is to take your children out and experience life with them, visit a museum, do something artsy, something out of the ordinary. Teach them about the world by visiting it. Take the time so you don’t miss out on these experiences. Build up memories now, with all family members and both parents.  Some families may encounter difficulties with a work-aholic mom or dad. That can be discouraging and disheartening, but you can still have fun. And remember, you can’t have a perfect vacation all the time, and that’s okay, the important thing is getting out and making those precious memories! You will need them, as centerpieces for reflection.  Vacations create health benefits both emotionally and physically. Even those stuck in routine need time to reset and relax their bodies. Sleep in if you can! Its okay! Learn to let go and disconnect from electronics. Playing simple board or card games with your kids allow huge connections between you. This summer, learn to relax and take time with your families. Work less with less stress.

Kristopher

Author of the book:

Navigating Your Mind: Achieving a Life of Peace, Joy and Happiness

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