Sunday Tribune

5 ways a weekend getaway is good for your health

- LUTHO PASIYA lutho.pasiya@inl.co.za

HOW many times have you complained about how exhausted you are, but without doing anything about it? It’s time you learn to put your needs first.

Taking time off is good for your mental and physical health, and you can come back more productive and effective.

Here are five science-based reasons you should book a break today.

Change of scenery

Staying in the same place and doing the same thing on repeat day after day can make you feel confined, mentally and physically.

While changing your routine is a long-term plan, a quick fix is travelling.

Some of the health benefits of travelling include making you feel you’re doing something worthwhile, like boosting your happiness levels, and stimulatin­g your mind.

Energy reserve boost

Studies have shown that holidays restock your energy stores, which makes work seem easier when you do return to the office.

Take a trip, come home, and hit the ground running.

Strengthen­s relationsh­ips

Weekend getaways are a great way of strengthen­ing relationsh­ips with your loved ones.

By spending some time away from the busy schedule of metros, people find solace and love in certain locations, either with family or alone.

Gets you active

Travelling gives you multiple opportunit­ies to get active, and physical exercise has a direct link to mental well-being.

Whether you want to hike up a mountain peak, swim in the sky-blue waters, or cycle through a scenic village, when you embrace the outdoors, you improve your mood and boost energy levels.

Improves sleep patterns

Poor sleep and high stress are a toxic mix for our mental state.

The health damage of poor sleep is varied, from irritabili­ty to poor cognitive performanc­e and efficiency.

It’s recommende­d that adults sleep at least seven hours a night and this can be more easily achieved while travelling.

 ?? Pexels ?? TAKING time off to travel is good for your mental and physical health. |
Pexels TAKING time off to travel is good for your mental and physical health. |

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