How to Make the Most of your Time Off

Tips for getting the most out of your time off and how to prioritize different forms of rest

Summer vibes are here! For us Texans, this summer has been a nice break from both the heat and the drought. For me, though, the summertime often felt underwhelming. Every year, I would envision an ideal summer filled with rest and relaxation, hoping to feel caught up on personal to-do tasks and self-care. Realistically, though, summers often felt draining. I would accomplish a lot and spend quality time with friends and family, but I never felt rejuvenated. Sometimes, I even felt more tired after a vacation than before.

It's only in the past couple of years that I’ve been intentional with my time off, making it a priority to do what’s best for me. This might sound selfish, but mental health is an individual practice. How many of us miss out on the chance to recharge because of the pressure to make sacrifices and compromises? There’s a scene in the movie Christmas Vacation where Ellen (one of the main character's) is in the kitchen sneaking a cigarette, clearly overwhelmed, as her frustrated daughter vents to her about extended family. Ellen turns to her daughter and says, “I don't know what to say, except it’s Christmas and we're all in misery.” While the holidays are inherently stressful, the message still resonates: Why does time off sometimes feel less than relaxing?

There are many forms of rest: mental, sensory, emotional, social, and physical. It’s important to take time off, but it’s key to practice a full, complete recharge of all the parts that make us, us. Although, I'll admit, I’m still practicing and perfecting this, here is what I have found helpful to make the most of my time off:

Mental Rest

1. Disconnect from Digital Devices I disconnect in one of two ways: either turning my phone off at night or leaving it in a separate room. Initially, this was difficult; but, I grew to love it and would oftentimes forget I didn’t have my phone with me. Vacation means stepping away. Give yourself permission for a digital detox. If you spend too much time on your phone while on vacation, you are not truly separating from your day-to-day life. Limit information overload—I promise it will be okay!
   

2. Practice Daily Mindfulness, Meditation, and/or Gratitude Clear your mind and reconnect with yourself through mindfulness, meditation, or gratitude. Part of this practice is also slowing down your nervous system. Take a deep breath and find beauty in your world. Remember, a calm mind is a calm body.
   

Sensory Rest

1. Get Back to the Simple Things Studies show we are happiest when we make time for simple things like reading a good book, spending time with loved ones, enjoying a meal, going for a walk, watching the sunset, stargazing, and connecting with nature. Make an effort to do one of these things every day! While on family vacation earlier this summer, my husband and I took walks on the beach every morning and evening. It became a ritual we looked forward to. Coffee in hand, we would head out to the closest mile marker. We vacationed in South Carolina, and the cut-throughs to the beach took us through the salt marsh. It seems so simple, but our greatest joy was searching for turtles, bird watching, and exploring the ecosystem. For me, it was unbelievably grounding and relaxing. I had no idea a 15-20 minute walk could be so good for the soul.
   

2. Slow Down Make time for enjoyable activities and slow down. While on vacation in Canada, our rental backed up to a large pond. Every morning at sunrise, I would sit on the dock. Some days I would meditate; other days, I would sit with my tea and enjoy the animals and wildlife around me. It was an opportunity to practice the ideal morning routine I often crave.

Emotional Rest

1. Set Boundaries It's okay to have a difference of opinion. Everyone has different expectations for their ideal vacation. Establish clear boundaries and advocate for your needs. Of course you are going to make time for family while on family vacation. It's also okay to put yourself first if you need some self-love. Don't waste precious time off on things you don't want to do. Spend time with family outside of the activity you don't find enjoyable. I spoke with a colleague about her recent vacation, and she mentioned something that resonated with me. As a mom of two boys who love skiing and all things adrenaline, she would always say "yes" despite not enjoying the same things. After years of miserable ski trips, she finally set a boundary. Now, everyone does what they want, and everyone has a good time!
   

2. Practice Self-Compassion and Acknowledge Your Feelings Validation is healing! Make room for what you may be holding onto and allow yourself the opportunity to process and heal. Be authentic and tell yourself, "it's okay to not be okay."
   

Social Rest

1. Experience Something New—Mix Up Your Routine On that same vacation in Canada, my husband and I went canoeing every evening. Our trips were filled with laughter, joy, and adventure, and yes, sometimes the occasional attempt at freestyle canoeing! We felt reconnected as a couple, and the days of our vacation felt re-energizing for our newfound hobby. We haven't tried freestyle canoeing since our trip; but the fun and memories we created will always be cherished. Step away from your normal routine. New experiences activate brain processing associated with happiness. Be brave, be bold, and be a kid again.
   

2. Focus on Quality Relationships or Spend Time Alone Based on Your Energy Level Mix it up! Listen to your body and advocate for what you feel up for. Most nights, I crave quality time and connection. On rare occasions, though, I need space and solitude. I either go to bed early with a good book or take a bath to recreate a spa-like atmosphere. We need both to fully recharge.
   

Physical Rest

1. Get Back from Vacation a Little Early Personally, I clean out the fridge before we leave and pre-make dinner to have ready in the freezer. Additionally, we'll schedule an HEB pickup for when we land. That way, all necessary errands are already run, and we don’t have to worry about cooking while unpacking. For us, it makes for an easier transition home. Be intentional with your travel. It’s a lot to get back from a trip on Sunday night and start your week first thing Monday morning. If possible, give yourself a day or two to reground yourself. If you're traveling across time zones, remember that for every hour you're off, your body needs a day to adjust.
   

For any time off, prioritize quality over quantity. Even if you have just 5 minutes a day, make it the best 5 minutes of your day. It's also important to note that all these practices can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. When mental health becomes your priority, best practices become the foundation for your habits.

Lastly, research has shown that shorter, more frequent breaks are better than fewer, longer breaks. Take the time for yourself and prioritize all forms of rest!