Brain vacations: why summer breaks have medical justification

Rest is an indispensable way to recharge for a person engaged in brain activity. Moreover, doctors provide a reason why it is necessary for any person.

After the New Year and Christmas holidays are over, a person can become psychologically depressed. That's why summer vacation bookings become more active during this period, according to the DailyStar article.

As the famous psychotherapist Anna Williamson explains, our brains "need" to be recharged. According to her, pressing the "Book a vacation now" button can change our brain chemistry for the better.

According to her, numerous studies show that as soon as the December holidays are over, many people experience hormonal disruption. "Our brain chemistry changes because of this heightened state of joy, and so it craves another hit of oxytocin and dopamine - our brain's reward, comfort, and love hormones. That's why we try to book a vacation in January to help restore the high," she explains.

Scientists have also concluded that vacation triggers the release of neurotransmitters and improves mood, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function. Rest also improves our ability to think creatively and can have a lasting effect on the nervous system, allowing it to recover better from injuries such as stroke and improve heart health.

It's no surprise, then, that according to research, most people have started looking for a New Year's vacation this year, with about four in 10 (37%) likely to book a summer vacation around this time of year. It is also interesting that the average adult needs 53 hours - more than two days - to find their dream vacation.

Moreover, doctors also advise paying attention to the fact that the optimal number of vacations per year for a person is about two. Experts also emphasize that every two months you need to take a break, even if it's a day or two, to avoid feelings of anxiety, stress, fatigue, and physical illness.

At the same time, studies have shown that three days after a holiday, people feel better, less anxious, and in a better mood. However, if you prefer a longer vacation, some studies show that the optimal vacation time is eight days.

Moreover, the joy of vacation and travel doesn't just come from the journey itself - even the simple act of planning a trip has a positive effect on the brain. The release of this hormone is so powerful that it begins to produce dopamine, a chemical that is released and reproduces the feelings that a person experiences during activities such as eating delicious food, shopping, or sex, experts say.

Incredibly, according to recent research, vacations also improve sleep patterns, which can last up to two weeks after you return home. Moreover, studies show that the brain gets a "novelty" every time you experience something "new" - for example, seeing your hotel room or swimming in the pool for the first time.

"Vacations are necessary so that we can enjoy some space and time away from the daily pressures and work on connecting and communicating. Your brain and body will thank you for it," the experts say. Travel industry experts emphasize that for many years there has been a huge demand for finding and booking vacations after Christmas.