I recently took a break from work, and was lucky enough to be able to head overseas for a week of that time with my little family. I was so looking forward to our trip – it was going to be our first family holiday since having our little boy, and my first holiday in over 2 and a half years (aside from maternity leave – which I’ve decided should never, ever be referred to as a ‘holiday’!).
But it wasn’t until I was lying in a hammock in Vanuatu (I know – it sounds horrible doesn’t it?) that I realised how much I had needed this break. It’s amazing how much stress we can carry with us day to day without noticing.
All of a sudden I didn’t have to be anywhere, or do anything. I didn’t have any commitments, and didn’t feel any obligations. I lost that horrible feeling that I needed to be trying to do 15 things at once- rushing from one thing to another.
And it took with it a whole lot of stress, and it even took some physical tension that I had through my shoulders, neck and chest that I hadn’t even realised was there. As a result I felt like I could breathe a bit easier.
While we were away we didn’t have internet access, and we had turned our mobile phones off (except for the daily ‘emergency’ text message check), and those thoughts that I normally have constantly through the day like “I’d better just quickly send that email” or ‘I’ll just look at that ‘thing’ online while I think of it” all stopped as well.
The constant inner chatter, and never ending mental ‘to do’ list quietened down. I was able to focus on each moment of each day & really be present, and enjoy my time with my family.
It has made me realise that as much as I may have thought that a holiday is a luxury, it really is a necessity - for both physical and mental wellbeing. It gives you a break from your routine, a chance to unwind (mentally & physically) and reconnect with family and friends. I’m already starting to plan my next holiday!
When did you last have a break?