Wellbeing: 6 tips for a balanced holiday

Getting together with family, going for walks, and disconnecting from social media and work are tips to make the most of your vacation.

The July holidays are here and many people are looking forward to enjoying this period of rest and leisure with their families. It’s a time to recharge, travel, relax and strengthen bonds. To make the most of your vacation, clinical psychologist Tatiane Paula has put together some valuable tips. See below:

1. Plan Ahead

According to the expert, it is important to plan ahead and establish a healthy routine. “Take time to relax and disconnect from screens, explore outdoor activities, read a book, strengthen relationships and, above all, remember that the main goal is to rest,” he says.

2. Take care of your mental health

This period can also be used to take care of mental and emotional health. One of the psychologist’s suggestions is to dedicate time to activities that do not require great commitments and that allow you to disconnect from work. “It is essential to reduce the level of accumulated stress by focusing on choices that bring pleasure and joy. This can include hobbies, sports, walks, watching movies, listening to music, cooking or any other activity that brings happiness,” advises Tatiene.

For those who have difficulty disconnecting from work, it may be necessary to seek professional help. “Cognitive behavioral therapy can be an effective option to understand the beliefs that lead to a behavioral pattern based on the need to always be productive. A specialist can offer appropriate guidance for each case, helping to develop strategies for a better balance between work and rest,” explains the specialist.

3. Strengthen emotional bonds

If you plan to spend the July holidays with your family, one of the activities recommended by the psychologist is to practice physical activity outdoors. “Also, engaging in volunteer work can be a great way to teach values ​​such as empathy and social responsibility. Prioritizing quality time with friends and family is also necessary to strengthen emotional bonds,” he adds.

4. Disconnect from social media

Another point addressed by the specialist is the use of social networks. Reducing the time spent in front of the screen during the July holidays can bring numerous benefits to mental and emotional health. “By disconnecting from the virtual world, it is possible to become more aware of the present moment and enjoy face-to-face interactions, in addition to helping reduce anxiety caused by social comparison and the pressure of always being connected. It improves the quality of sleep, since the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with the production of melatonin,” he explains.

5. Carry out productive activities

Furthermore, reconciling free time and rest with productive activities is essential to make the most of this break period effectively. To this end, Tatiane clarifies that it is important to identify goals and priorities, set limits between work and free time, set aside time for self-care, be flexible with expectations, practice awareness (meditation) and living in the present tense. “The goal is to make the most of your vacation, resting and recharging your batteries, while still doing productive activities.”

6. Plan to get back to your routine

To return to routine after the holidays, a gradual and planned transition is recommended. “Plan ahead, prioritize, and divide tasks into smaller steps. It is important to gradually resume activities, prioritize self-care, and create transition rituals. It is also essential to maintain positive thoughts and see your return as an opportunity for growth. It is normal to take time to readjust, so be gentle with yourself in this process and enjoy the experiences and learnings that routine can bring,” concludes the expert.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.