When I went to Europe the first time, I was so wound up that it took me about two weeks before I felt that I was in sync with the Greek culture around me.  Most of us don’t have two weeks to unwind.  So how do you truly shift gears and enjoy your “get away” time whether it be in Europe or at home as a staycation* (a vacation at or near one’s home)?

Here are guidelines to consider:

1. What’s it all about? What are you going on the vacation for?  I can recall one rather painful experience when my then husband and I had not done enough talking about what we wanted to have the vacation be like before boarding the plane, and as a result we were at odds much more than usual when it came to enjoying various activities.
2. Plan ahead.  There is an inherent enjoyment in the choices around and planning for a vacation.  Do the exploration and planning in ways that reflect the intent of your vacation. 
3. Review your budget.  Be sure that your “dream vacation” and your budget match, otherwise you may experience more stress than fun. 
4. Plan downtime. Even with a plan and a desire to go to places and do things you really enjoy, there is still a lot of wear and tear if you are in new places and constantly adapting to new settings and routines.  So, give yourself time to unwind, catch-up on sleep and reflect.
5. Take a reminder that you are “home” wherever you are.  One friend always bought flowers when she settled into a space because it made her feel truly at home.  A simpler tool could be a picture of a loved one or a pet that you set on your nightstand or place your journal there.

As you can tell this is not being written by a twenty something, or a millennial, but an early boomer and for those in the second half values are even more important to consider.  So, look again: “What is truly important to you?”

If the theme for you is relaxation and  you are committed to a staycation*, consider attending Relax, Reconnect, Recapture…Your Natural Rhythm…a workshop PLUS Spa amenities!  You will learn lots of simple practices for shifting gears and taking very good care of yourself.  Save August 2, click here for further details.