For many, summer vacation is the highlight of the year
Often, we hope to effortlessly slip into a relaxed holiday mood the moment the vacation begins. However, if everyday life has been hectic and the days leading up to the break are filled with various tasks and obligations, the transition into holiday mode can feel difficult. Your mind might still be racing, unable to slow down.
To help ease that shift from everyday busyness to true relaxation, I’ve gathered 7 tips for a smoother start to your summer holiday:
- Start slowing down early
Many people believe that working extra hard right up until the break makes the vacation feel more deserved. In reality, the mind may not be able to keep up with such a rapid shift. Stress, pressure, and urgency tend to follow you into your days off, and mentally switching to relaxation mode doesn’t happen instantly. That’s why it’s helpful—if possible—to begin gradually easing your pace in the final weeks before your vacation. Start slowing down intentionally and begin directing your thoughts toward your upcoming break. Reflect on what truly needs to be finished before the holiday and what can wait until after your return.
2. Prepare for your return before you leave
Make a list of things you’ll need to address once your vacation ends. Writing down tasks—whether on paper or digitally—can free up mental space and prevent your mind from clinging to reminders during your time off. This makes it easier to fully relax, knowing that the important things won’t be forgotten.
3. Take a moment for yourself before joining others
Before diving into time with family, a partner, or friends, give yourself a moment to check in with your own thoughts and feelings. A small pause can make a big difference when your mind is transitioning out of daily life. Notice how it feels to shift gears—what are you craving right now, and what emotions are surfacing? Even a brief moment to yourself can help ground you in the present.
4. Change your scenery at the start of your vacation
For many, going somewhere different helps break away from work or school routines. While some people head straight to the cottage or travel as soon as vacation starts, you don’t need to make a big move to mark the shift. Plan a day trip, meet a friend, or have breakfast somewhere new on your first day off. Starting your vacation with something different—even small—can act as a mental ritual that signals it’s time to unwind.
5. Break your routines
One of the key purposes of a vacation is to create a clear distinction between everyday life and time off. Consider which routines you might gently disrupt during your break. You don’t need grand changes—often, simply doing things differently helps your mind recognize that this time is special. Your brain begins to chart a new course, and your thoughts are freed from habitual tracks.
6. Don’t panic if work or study thoughts pop up
If a persistent thought keeps surfacing, don’t fight it—write it down and set it aside for later. This simple act can lift the mental load and allow you to return more fully to your holiday state of mind.
7. Allow yourself to feel all emotions
Remember: even the best vacation doesn’t have to feel exciting or joyful all the time. When you give yourself permission to experience the full range of emotions—even during time off—you make room for genuine rest and peace.
Leave a Reply