Have you ever found yourself starting to get sick as soon as your vacation begins? Just when it’s time to enjoy some well-deserved rest, your body seems to decide to act up. This phenomenon, which is much more common than you might think, is often due to accumulated stress and the abrupt transition between intense work and relaxation. Let’s find out why this happens and what you can do about it, so that your next vacation is truly relaxing and revitalizing.

A common phenomenon

Leisure Sickness Syndrome (LSS)

This syndrome was first identified by Dutch psychologist Ad Vingerhoets, who claims that people fall ill or experience various unpleasant physical symptoms during their free time, such as weekends or vacations.

Common symptoms of LSS include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Flu symptoms
• Gastrointestinal problems

Why do I feel this way?

Stress relief

Are you constantly under pressure at work? By always being on the alert, your body can react by showing symptoms of illness as soon as it relaxes.

Change of routine

Ah, that famous routine we’re so eager to get away from! However, switching abruptly from a structured schedule to an extended period of relaxation can upset the body’s balance and cause physical symptoms.

High vacation expectations

Are you the type of person who plans your schedule to the letter, even on vacation? A high level of expectation can create additional stress. Ironically, instead of helping you, this unnecessary pressure can bring out symptoms of illness, as your body reacts to the stress of trying to maximize every moment of your free time.

What can I do to avoid feeling overwhelmed during my vacations?

Prevention is key

Why not start incorporating some good stress management practices into your daily routine right now, even before the vacations arrive? In the long run, it is those small, everyday actions that, in the long term, will have a huge impact on your well-being.

Maintain a modified routine

Try to keep some structure, even during yout time-off. By maintaining a simplified routine with regular meals, a consistent sleep schedules and planned activities, you can make the most of your free time.

Calm the mind

• Physical exercise : Exercising regularly is a great way to reduce stress. During the vacations, try physical activities such as walking, swimming or yoga.
• Relaxation techniques : Meditation, deep breathing and yoga can help maintain a state of relaxation.
• Mindfulness : A powerful practice for staying present and fully appreciating the moment without being overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts.

Taking care of your general health

• Balanced diet : Continue to focus on a balanced diet during your vacations. Opt for healthy food choices to maintain your energy levels and strengthen your immune system.
• Hydration : Make sure you stay well hydrated, especially if you’re in a hot climate.
• Adequate sleep : Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and make sure you get plenty of rest.

Rethinking vacations

• Accepting to slow down and rest : Don’t put pressure on yourself to keep a busy schedule. Take the time to enjoy moments of rest and relaxation, that will allow you to fully recharge. By letting go of the need to be constantly busy, you can truly enjoy every moment of your time off with calm and tranquility.
• Fun activities : Engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure, without feeling pressured to follow a strict program.
• Travel closer : Holidays don’t have to involve an 8-hour flight, meticulous planning and intensive organization. By opting for a simpler, less stressful vacation, you can enjoy every moment to the full without worrying about complicated logistics.

With summer just around the corner, it is the perfect time to relax and recharge. We hope that those practical tips and wellness-focused strategies will provide you with the necessary tools to prevent holiday fatigue and enable everyone to make the most of their free time.

Take advantage of this pre-holiday period to prepare yourself mentally and physically for some well-deserved rest.

After all, a relaxed mind is the best companion for fully savoring the summer pleasures that await you🙌