Most people think that a vacation needs to be traveling to an exotic, distant destination for an extended period of time. It is important to remember that smaller "mini-vacations" can be just as stress-relieving than larger trips.
We all deserve to have a vacation every once in awhile to help get our minds off of work, whether it be at the office or at home. However, traveling in itself can be stressful: packing, taking time off work, getting the kids ready, airport delays, etc. Taking a mini-vacation closer to home for a couple days can eliminate some of the stress that can come with traveling and allow you to truly have a relaxing getaway. Some of the best mini-vacations can be found within just a few hours of Central Illinois!
- Dig out your tent and sleeping bags and take the family camping at one of the many campgrounds in the area. Camping forces you to take an extended break from your computer, video games and maybe even cell phones, and just become one with the nature around you. There's nothing quite as calming as seeing the sights and sounds of a forest or lake and the fresh air rejuvenates and restores you like nothing else. This activity is great for families of all ages, as well as groups of friends. For a listing of campgrounds in Central Illinois, visit the Illinois Campground Directory.
- Visit a local bed and breakfast for a night or two. Bed and breakfasts and country inns provide wonderful one-of-a-kind escapes and there are hundreds of unique inns within an hour or two of most cities (click here to find a listing of all B&B's in Central Illinois). This is a great way for couples and families to take breaks and enjoy adventures together for a relatively low cost. They can be a great alternative to staying in a hotel and you will appreciate the great service and home-like feel while on your getaway.
- Visit friends or family that live within a few hours of you. This allows you to take a break and visit a new place, and have a free place to stay. Make it clear that they're not expected to be your tour guide. You can go out exploring during the day and then meet up together for dinner. Tell them that whenever they need a "quick getaway," you would love to return the favor and have them stay with you.
- Take a "staycation" at home. A day simple spent at home doing nothing can also be extremely relaxing and enjoyable. Spend the day in bed with a good book if you want, or watch a movie on television. Even a simple bubble bath can be a great way of enjoying a mini-vacation day. Turn off your cell phone for a few hours and do at least one activity that makes you feel relaxed.
You also may find that you really just need a short "mental" vacation to help rejuvenate. No place ticket, no packing, no planning. If that is the case, consider the following:
- A study at the University of Ontario found that short term leisure activities reduce stress levels, if they're easy to do and don't involve competition. Try playing a musical instrument of doing a crossword puzzle for 15 minutes and your blood pressure will drop and your stress hormones will stop pumping.
- Try changing your clothes. Psychologists say changing your clothes as soon as you get home can be a powerful psychological tool. Put on your workout gear and head to a class at Mettler Center, or take a walk or bike ride.
- Climb in a hammock and sip some lemonade. According to Mark Ashnel, sports and exercise psychologist, it can restore you on several levels. During the day, you burn through acetylcholine, a brain chemical responsible for allowing you to develop ideas throughout the day. Taking a small break with minimal thinking helps you bounce back. Lemonade will help replenish the brain chemical responsible for creating your brilliant ideas!
What was the most relaxing vacation you have taken? Share your ideas and tips with us!
**Don't forget to post a comment on today's post for your chance to win this week's giveaway: a luxury aromatherapy set!**
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