1. Disconnect

You don’t want to miss important information in our lives, but this need to be in the know doesn’t allow you to truly relax. Give your phone or computer a break too by turning them off or leaving them behind, and let people know you can’t be reached for a few days. You will be able to escape from stress more easily, and can quickly catch up on what you missed when you return.

2. Do something different

Doing something that challenges you differently from your regular routine helps you detach from the stress of your life while giving you a sense of accomplishment, making you feel like your vacation is time well spent. You may even learn skills that can be incorporated into your life after vacation. Try taking art or language classes, or going for a health-improving hiking or spa vacation.

3. Bring bacteria

Changes in climate, food and schedule can take their toll on your body. Be sure to pack probiotics to keep your immune system healthy and relieve digestive problems including traveler’s diarrhea.

4. Under-plan

Your daily life is probably busy enough – you shouldn’t be rushing around on vacation. If you need to stick to a schedule on your holidays be sure to plan a couple hours of empty time each day just to relax.

5. Eat light

Avoid packing on extra weight during vacation by choosing lighter foods. If you want to indulge in local specialties, eat slowly so you enjoy the flavors and notice when you feel full. To taste a variety of things, you and your travel partners can order different foods and share.

6. Exercise

If the purpose of your vacation is to truly relax, don’t forget to keep moving! Exercise alleviates the effects of stress and will help you unwind. You don’t need to do a heavy workout to enjoy the benefits. Try walking meditation where you take a casual walk, being aware of your body, keeping your mind in the present and noticing everything around you.

7. Stay hydrated

Different climates, schedules, food and activity levels can quickly lead to dehydration. Be sure to drink at least 2 liters of water per day to keep your energy levels up.

8. Bring back memories

The effect of holidays lasts a few days when you return, but after a week you may be back to your previous stress levels. Carry your holiday over into your office by bringing in memories from your trip such as photos. Having reminders in your environment will help you revisit the relaxed state you achieved during vacation.

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