Wednesday

“New experiences help me grow in meaningful ways.”

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Why you need to take a vacation

• How to make sure your vacation is restful

• Your chance at weekly vacation giveaways

• Tips for staying healthy while traveling

Feeling Stressed? Time for a Vacation!

We often think of vacations as just a break from work, but research shows that taking time off has real mental and physical health benefits. Studies reveal that regular vacations can help reduce stress, lower the risk of heart disease, and even improve your outlook on life. It’s not just about taking a trip — the act of planning a vacation can boost happiness up to eight weeks before the trip begins.

Vacation time is proven to help improve both physical and mental health. From experiencing moments of awe that lift your mood to spending time with family and strengthening relationships, vacations offer something for everyone. They even reduce the risk of burnout and enhance motivation when you return to work.

Even if a getaway isn’t possible, a staycation can provide similar benefits. The key is to take time away from your everyday stressors, recharge, and allow yourself to relax. If you haven’t been taking regular breaks, it might be time to start scheduling some downtime. Remember, your mental and physical health deserve a break too!

How to Truly Recharge During Your Next Vacation

Vacations are supposed to help you relax, but how many times have you come back feeling more stressed than before you left? It turns out, vacationing “wrong” can defeat the purpose of taking a break. To truly rest and recharge, there are a few things to consider.

First, plan a few short trips rather than one big vacation. Multiple getaways throughout the year keep your mental health high and stress low, as the excitement of planning alone can improve happiness for weeks. But don't over-schedule yourself—stick to a few activities each day, so you don’t end up feeling exhausted by the itinerary.

Also, remember to put down your phone! If you’re constantly checking work emails or scrolling social media, it’s time to disconnect. Consider a vacation destination with limited internet access, or temporarily mute your apps.

Finally, try activities that promote wellness, like hiking or swimming outdoors. Nature has the power to reset your body’s stress levels, and it’ll leave you feeling more energized when you return. With a little mindful planning, your vacation can truly be a time to recharge, rather than return feeling worn out.

Save Money On Your Dream Trip

Just having a trip on the calendar can shift your whole mindset. You know the feeling—the build-up, the daydreaming, the excitement of exploring somewhere new, trying unfamiliar foods, and making memories. But planning it? And paying for it? That part can feel… less fun.

That’s where Travelzoo comes in. Travelzoo’s membership is designed to make travel more accessible and a lot less stressful. For $1, you can try it for 30 days and get access to:

• Exclusive, member-only deals (up to 65% off trips)

• Weekly vacation giveaways

• Complimentary airport lounge access if your flight’s delayed

• A curated Top 20® list of the week’s best trips

Make more memories, take more chances, and live life to the fullest this year.

See how Travelzoo can help make this your most adventure-filled year yet.

Thank you to Travelzoo for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Your Essential Guide to a Healthy Getaway

Vacations are the perfect opportunity to relax, but staying healthy on your trip is essential for making the most of it. Before you go, check for any travel advisories or vaccinations you might need, especially for international trips. Visiting a travel health expert can provide peace of mind and help you stay prepared.

Pack your essentials, including medications, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer. Staying hydrated is crucial—always carry a water bottle to avoid dehydration, especially in warmer climates. Be cautious about drinking tap water and opt for bottled water when in doubt.

When you’re at your destination, consider light physical activities like walking or stretching to keep your body energized. Gentle exercise can help prevent fatigue and improve mood, especially if you're visiting a new city or outdoor destination. These small actions can keep you feeling refreshed and help you get the most out of your vacation.

Additionally, always be mindful of your personal safety and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling in unfamiliar places. Keep emergency contacts handy and research medical care available at your destination. And don’t forget to plan ahead—packing healthy snacks and keeping over-the-counter medicines on hand can make your trip smoother and safer.

A Note From Us

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False: True. Airplane cabins are very dry, and dehydration can make you feel more tired and sluggish.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Every trip is more than a destination. It’s a chance to move differently, notice more, and reconnect with wonder.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!