Monday's Musings (#4)

 We're getting ready to take a mini road trip. Just three days into Washington state apple country, but three days away from chores and routine. 

Routine is good. Our bodies and minds respond to the familiarity of routine. Like children, even adults benefit from knowing what's next, especially during times of stress. Routine becomes our guide and helps us stay on track and healthy. 

When we follow a routine, our bodies respond. We sleep better. We are able to maintain healthier diet and exercise choices. When you have kids, it makes the mornings and bedtimes go smoother and more efficient, getting everything done that needs to be done. 

Routine gives us structure and helps to reduce the daily stresses we encounter, providing better mental and physical health. 

But we need to step away from time to time. That's why vacations are so important. 

Studies have shown time and again that time away from the hustle of the work/school week is good for the body and soul. We need time to decompress and leave stresses behind, even if for a day or two.

A vacation lowers risks of heart diseases, increases satisfaction in life, and increases our motivation to reach goals. Your mind is more quieted and creativity soars. 

We are so busy in our daily lives, having a moment of quiet to just sip on your morning coffee and listen to the birds without feeling guilt for not doing those chores, does amazing things for mental health. We experience feelings of positivity that makes our minds feel empowered and motivated. That feeling of impending burnout begins to dissipate and excitement for life is reignited. 

Those week or two long vacations can really reset our bodies, minds and spirits, but those little quicky trips are equally beneficial. They are less expensive - no airfare, few hotel nights. And they give you an opportunity to explore the richness of the world right there within your reach. 

Simply looking forward to the trip increases general happiness. Studies have shown the the anticipation of a trip is the best part. Cornell University discovered that people are the happiest when they are looking forward to a trip somewhere. 

And anticipating I am. We leave tomorrow morning. We have a list of things we can do each day - we can choose to do them all, some of them, or none of them. It depends on our mood that day. The car is gassed up and ready to go.

 I'm really quite excited!