The Benefits of Taking Vacation Time

Vacations are special. It’s time where we unwind, connect with loved ones, pursue other interests and it’s where we can make special memories that last a lifetime. After a rather odd year-plus of isolation and working at home, make your wellbeing a priority by taking some time off.

Don’t believe us? Here are three ways, based on research, that vacation can benefit us:

It’s relaxing 

Studies indicate that vacation time featuring rest and leisure activities reduces stress and promotes immune functioning by having an immediate effect on molecular networks. One study showed how participants who attended a meditation retreat experienced a boost in antiviral activity. What leisure activities do you enjoy doing or is there something you have always wanted to try? Now might be the time to book that time off and make it happen.

Taking a break from work makes us more productive

If we don’t step away from work, it could potentially lead to feelings of burnout. Time off allows for work-stress recovery and can make us more resilient over time. The greatest benefits of vacation are experienced with more time off.

If that’s not possible, you can still maximize opportunities to rejuvenate. Consider bookending weekend days, booking Fridays off, or tacking on vacation days that lead on to statutory holidays.

It boosts creativity

Vacation time offers a different rhythm. It shakes up the routine. Whenever we are exposed to new activities, have the headspace for fresh ideas, or just daydream, we experience positive emotions. This facilitates broadened mindsets that can make us more creative and inventive.

Get the most out of your vacation by engaging in opportunities that support social connection and physical activity. Take a break from screens, which can be associated with lower life satisfaction; tuck into a good book that you have been meaning to read; immerse yourself in a hobby or activity that you haven’t had time for; savour quality time with friends and family and make those special vacation moments come alive in stories and memories.

For faculty and staff, here’s how you book time off in Workday

Not sure how to book time off in Workday? Take a look at this knowledge base article from the Integrated Service Center. It gives you a step-by-step guide to booking your time off in Workday so you can see some of those vacation benefits we mentioned above.