LIFESTYLES

To be effective a holiday from work should never be less than two weeks. It takes the first week to forget the problems of work and truly relax. It is the second week onwards that does all the good with regard to physical and mental good health.

If you are worried about overdoing the expenses you could be undoing all the good that might have built up from a more low budget holiday more in keeping with your finances.

Modern day travel can be trying both mentally and physically so that unless you really enjoy driving, or train travel, you should consider the distances to be travelled unless of course there is time to relax after arriving at your holiday destination and before leaving on the return journey for home.

Holidays should be as far removed from your work pattern as possible. To incorporate work in your holiday, the so called working holiday, is to jeopardise the whole intent of a holiday. It should be a recharging of batteries, a time for loved ones to see more of each other in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Over-eating and over-indulging in alcohol, whilst possibly enjoyable at the time can undo the good effects and bring you home with a giant holiday hangover. Moderation and relaxation should be the key. If you do have a late night and all that goes with it, then sleep in the next day to catch up.

Family holidays with children pose a different problem. Whilst the children should be entertained and allowed to run off surplus energy, it is most important that the adults help each other and that the older children help in supervision and daily chores. The mother is just as entitled to a break and a necessary recharging of batteries as is everyone else. If both parents are working outside the home, then both should make an effort to share responsibilities on holiday. Concern and consideration should be shown for each other’s needs so that frustration’s and disappointments do not enter the scene.

Exercise should be kept up whilst away, particularly aerobic exercise. Sitting for too long, especially in the older person can lead to painful backs and joints particularly if care is not taken to ensure that sleeping accommodation is satisfactory. A person used to a firm bed can have a painful back for the duration of the holiday if the bed is not supportive. Better to sleep on the floor rather than on a bed which sags and gives no support. Pillows can be a worry with regard to neck problems; it’s often advisable to take your own with you.

Plane travel, particularly in economy class, can produce neck problems. Inflatable neck supports will lessen the likelihood of a stiff, painful neck at the end of an international flight. Get up and move abut the cabin. This will help to prevent circulation problems.

Long car trips can pose the same problems. So take a break every few hours. Make sure you take time to have a rest day in between trips should your holiday consist of car travel

Remember, the whole idea of a holiday is to unwind and prepare for the year ahead. Somewhere in the hustle and bustle of the modern world, this concept seems to have become confused.

Enjoy your holiday!