Are you familiar with the feeling of needing a vacation after coming back from one? It’s important to learn the art of truly relaxing while on vacation, and with some planning, you can rejuvenate and bring those blissful vibes back home with you.
Setting the Stage for a Relaxing Return
Coming home from a vacation should feel bittersweet rather than just bitter. Taking time to organize your living space before leaving ensures that you maintain those vacation vibes after returning home. Consider these steps before setting off:
Pre-Vacation Home Preparation
- Clean out the fridge: Check expiry dates and dispose of or donate items that won’t be good by the time you get back.
- Do the laundry: Avoid a backlog of dirty clothes when you return.
- Make your bed with clean sheets: A clean bed awaits you after a long flight.
- Finish up work tasks: Set an out-of-office email and take real time off.
Consider saving a full day at home before returning to work to help wind down, digest the trip, and ease the transition back to “real life.”
Embracing a Social Media Detox
To make the most of your vacation, set the intention to take a total social media detox. This helps you stay present and live in the moment. If a complete detox isn’t feasible, create a schedule that allows you to spend most of your day engaged in intentional activities:
- Check email/Instagram/etc. only before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
- Fill your time with activities that make you feel present and alive, such as reading, playing games, or taking long walks.
Balancing Activities and Downtime
Whether you’re on a beach vacation or exploring a bustling city, avoid over-planning your days. While it’s essential to try new activities, sample local cuisine, and visit popular landmarks or museums, remember to leave time for relaxation:
- Allocate entire days for the beach or afternoons spent in a park.
- Focus on intentional downtime and limit checking your email or social media.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve true relaxation while on vacation and maintain those blissful vibes even after returning home.