The Debate On Vacations (Issue #40)
What's better mini-breaks or long vacations?
I’m not a mind reader but I have to believe something on everyone’s mind is summer and more importantly summer vacations—family trips, girls trips, boys trips, friend trips, romantic trips, solo trips—whatever it is, we all are ready for the sunshine filled break of a vacation!
I am fortunate though, living in South Florida gives me an almost year around feeling like it’s summer vacation (but also it’s 98 degrees here). So throughout the year, I am always thinking of ways to enjoy the beautiful nature of Florida and spend a little time away from my work desk.
I would love taking a random Wednesday off work. Whether it was to go to the zoo with my nephews or spend the day at home dancing in the kitchen.
That midweek break was always a much-needed reset.
A quick two days of work, a fun day off, and then back to the grind. But I also treasured the rare occasions when I took 5+ days off—those longer vacations where I could truly disconnect and step away from work completely.
Both types of breaks gave me something different, but reflecting on those moments made me wonder: what’s actually better for our mental, physical, and psychological health?
Frequent short vacations sprinkled throughout the year—or a few long vacations where you can dive deep into rest?
Before we get into the nitty gritty: What’s your ideal vacation style? Do you prefer quick escapes or a long getaway?
What Does the Research Say?
Short Vacations (1-2 days, multiple times a year):
Offers frequent recovery boosts, helping reduce stress and improve mood regularly.
A study of those within middle management found that even short breaks led to sustained improvements in well-being and lowered stress for up to 45 days after the trip.
They’re easier to fit into busy schedules and provide consistent mental resets.
Long Vacations (5+ days, once or twice a year):
Allow for deep mental detachment from work, which is crucial for long-term stress relief.
Research shows that longer vacations give more opportunities to gain mastery and control over leisure activities, which significantly improves life satisfaction.
They can improve physical health by boosting sleep quality and increasing physical activity.
Physical Health Benefits (Both Types):
Taking regular vacations is linked to a 30% reduced risk of heart disease and can even extend longevity.
Vacations help improve sleep and encourage healthier lifestyle habits.
So, What’s The Ultimate Vacation Plan?
Why not blend both? Here’s what that stats tell me, and I highly recommend:
Schedule several short breaks (1-2 days) spread throughout the year to keep stress low and mood high. Use these for spontaneous fun or simple self-care.
Plan at least one longer vacation (5+ days) annually to fully unplug, explore new experiences, and deeply recharge.
This combination can provide the best of both worlds—frequent mental refreshers and profound rejuvenation when you need it most.
Until next time, take care of yourself…and don’t forget to take that day off to dance in the kitchen.
~Colleen