Holidays are a special time for rest and rejuvenation, but is the duration of these great escapes really optimal for our well-being? Recent studies suggest that the traditional length of holidays may not be the most beneficial. Here’s why.
The Quest for Optimal Well-being
A Matter of Duration
It is commonly agreed that the longer the holidays, the better they are, and with our long summer holidays, many are tempted to go on holiday for 2 or even 3 weeks. However, research indicates that a peak of well-being is reached after only eight days. After this period, the positive effect of holidays on our mental and physical health begins to decline.
The illusion of long-term disconnection
Extending the holidays beyond this threshold does not guarantee a proportional increase in rest or satisfaction. On the contrary, it can even prove counterproductive, leading to a certain form of fatigue or boredom, and sometimes even to a preemptive anxiety related to the return to daily reality.
The Importance of Frequent Breaks
Multiplication of short breaks
Rather than investing in a long annual rest period, it is more advisable to prioritize shorter and more frequent breaks. This approach helps to maintain a high level of well-being throughout the year, by providing regular recovery periods.
Adapting holidays to one’s needs
Every individual has different expectations and needs when it comes to vacations. The study highlights the importance of personalizing one’s rest periods, by listening to oneself and following one’s own desires, whether it be for adventure, cultural discovery or simple rest.
Towards a new concept of holidays
It’s time to rethink our concept of vacations. Shorter breaks, spread throughout the year, could prove far more beneficial for our overall wellbeing. This approach, besides optimizing rest, would allow for better stress management and a more harmonious life balance. In the end, the quality of our vacations is not measured by their length, but by their ability to meet our deep needs for rest and renewal.