With 76% of Gen Z prioritizing work over fun this summer, one in three skipped a vacation, largely due to financial reasons, according to a recent research.
Since summer breaks are vital for reducing stress and preventing burnout, here are 5 tips to recharge and refresh if you missed out on a vacation.
How can you recharge without a vacation?
Avery Morgan, productivity expert and Chief Communications Officer at an all-in-one website for students’ needs, EduBirdie, shared her 5 tips with us, to boost energy without going on vacation:
1. Try a half-day digital detox
Take at least half a day to ditch the digital world — turn off all notifications, we mean all of them: social media, emails, push notifications from any app. Instead, spend time doing what makes you genuinely happy, like binge-reading that book that’s been dusting on your shelf for way too long, trying out a new recipe, or just chilling with some good music. It’s amazing how stepping away from the constant pinging can clear your mind and make you feel way more relaxed.
2. Plan microadventures
If there’s no hope for a European summer full of traveling, you can always shake things up by becoming a tourist in your city. Hit up a new café, stroll through a park you’ve never explored, or check out that quirky museum of modern art. Even just taking a different route on your daily walk can make everything feel fresh and exciting. These little adventures might not require a suitcase, but they’ll give you that mini escape your brain craves.
3. Treat yourself to a solo date night
Who says you need other people around to have fun? Plan a night that’s all about you. Order your go-to comfort food, set up a cozy spot with blankets, and dive into whatever you love — whether it’s a movie marathon, catching up on a series, or getting lost in a creative project. It’s like a mini-vacation for your soul, all without leaving your couch. However, if you’re not a homebody, dress up in a pretty little outfit and take yourself out to dinner and a stroll in a park, that’ll have the same effect.
4. Create your comfort ritual
Find a little ritual that provides you with comfort and incorporates it into your daily routine. Perhaps it’s dripping your favourite tea, lighting a fragrant candle, or listening to a song that always makes you happy. These small acts of self-care can become your secret weapon for remaining calm and refreshed, even on the busiest days.
5. Step outside for nature breaks
When you’re feeling frazzled, head outside for a little reset. Take a stroll around the block, sit in the park, or simply relax on your porch for a few minutes. We all need an intermezzo from time to time. Plus, soaking up some vitamin D from the sun can boost your mood and help maintain healthy energy levels. Being in nature, even for a short time, provides a quick recharge that feels as wonderful as a vacation day.
