We’re All Going On Our Summer Holidays

By Alice O'Brien. Churchview Psychotherapy, Millstreet

Summer is here. That means one thing-holidays. The complicated online bookings have occurred months ago, new socks are bought for the kids, the roof box is attached to the car and the passports have finally arrived, seems like a lot of stress before we even leave the front garden, so why do we do it? Why is the summer break-away so important for our mental health?

Firstly, the time off provides us with a break from our regular routine. This everyday routine carries a lot of responsibilities and obligations that can cause stress to build. An annual break allows us to be care-free, to let go of our burdens- even if it is only for a while.

Also, whereas we love our family dearly, we can lose sight of this with the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where we are constantly watching the clock or planning the day around activities and events. Time away on holidays can allow us the time to listen to enjoy each other. To enjoy the company and be present without rushing and racing.

Taking a break can benefit our physical health by lowering our stress responses, improving our sleep quality and giving us time to be more physically active.

This reduces our risk of burn-out when we return to work following our time off. Time away from deadlines and appointments can reduce the feeling of anxiety we may have during the year. When we return to work after a holiday we can be more productive and focused, which leads to higher job satisfaction and enjoyment in our work life.

Holidays are the ultimate selfcare activity. Many of us are too busy during the year to think of ourselves and our own needs. Finding time on our holiday to explore and indulge our passions can give us the TLC we need.

Holidays come in all shapes and sizes. So, if your holiday involves reading four books by a pool, hiking the highest mountains or going to theme parks with the kids, make sure it recharges your batteries enough until the next one.