The Secret to a Truly Restorative Vacation (Hint: It's Not Just Time Off)
We all know vacations are good for us—but what if the real magic isn’t just in stepping away from work, but how we spend that time away?
A recent meta-analysis of 32 studies across nine countries sheds new light on what really makes a vacation restorative. And spoiler alert: it’s more than just logging out of your email.
Vacations Aren’t Just a Short-Term Boost
For years, it was assumed that the benefits of vacation were fleeting—here today, gone the moment you check your Monday inbox. But this new research suggests otherwise.
Yes, vacations provide an immediate boost in well-being, but the good news is that those effects can last far longer than previously thought. Even after returning to work, many vacationers report feeling mentally refreshed and emotionally recharged for weeks.
The Real Key? Disconnecting—For Real
So what’s the secret sauce? Disconnection.
The most significant long-term benefits came when people fully detached from work—mentally and emotionally—not just physically. That means no sneaky email checks, no “just one quick call,” and definitely no catching up on Slack while poolside.
It might sound obvious, but in our always-on world, unplugging is easier said than done. Still, researchers emphasize that real recovery requires a true break from the daily grind. The more completely you can mentally "check out," the more restored you’ll feel when you return.
Move Your Body, Boost Your Mind
Want to supercharge your time off? Get moving.
The research found that physical activity—whether it’s hiking, biking, bird-watching, boating, fishing, island hopping, or simply walking through a new city—was the biggest contributor to improved well-being. You don’t need to train for a marathon; any movement that gets your body going can elevate your mood and help your mind reset.
Vacations are the perfect time to engage in natural, enjoyable movement. Think less treadmill, more trail. Less reps, more real-world adventure.
How Long Do the Benefits Last?
Wondering how long that post-vacation glow sticks around? The study found that well-being remained elevated for up to three weeks after returning to work.
And here's something surprising: longer vacations didn’t lead to a quicker drop-off in well-being, debunking the old idea that more time away means a faster return to baseline stress levels. So whether you're taking a long weekend or a two-week escape, the impact is real—and it lasts.
What This Means for You (and Your Workplace)
The takeaway? Take your vacation time. Use it fully. Disconnect completely. And when you can, choose activities that get you moving.
For organizations, these findings are a wake-up call. Encouraging a culture where employees really take time off—and aren’t silently penalized for doing so—can lead to a more energized, resilient workforce.
Because in the end, well-rested people are more creative, more productive, and a whole lot happier.
Ready for a Restorative Getaway?
If you're overdue for some deep rest and true disconnection, we’d love to welcome you to The Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast. Sleep in. Order breakfast in bed. Stroll the local shops, relax on the porch, or do absolutely nothing at all.
Your well-being is waiting—book your stay today.