Holidays are finally here! This year we are going to avoid all stress and perfectionism and simply enjoy some deep relaxation. Will you join us? Our tips will help you to switch off and enjoy. Downtime is so important for our well-being. But how do we achieve it? Leave the laptop at home, take it easy, keep meals simple and get some me time – these are just some of our 5 best ideas for a stress-free and relaxed holiday. Happy summer holidays!

 

Tip 1: Find out about your holiday destination

 

A stress-free holiday begins at the planning stage. Choose a destination that suits your interests and preferences. If you are travelling with your family, child- and family-friendly hotels are ideal. If you are going away with your partner and prefer to spend time just with them, a quieter location might be more suitable. Check also what is available at the location. Is the beach far away? Is there an opportunity to do day trips? Is there childcare available? What is the food like? What do you need to pack? Can certain things be booked in advance? Being well prepared means that you can enjoy a more relaxed holiday and avoid unnecessary stress factors.

 

Tip 2: Me time is also important when you are on holidays

 

It is not unusual for couples to argue when they are on holiday together. This is because they are suddenly spending 24 hours a day with their partner – something that they may not be used to and may prove to be a real endurance test. Added to this, the expectation of a perfect holiday together is often too high – a recipe for stress. Want to avoid a relationship crisis? Then give each other space when you go away together. After all, you don’t have to do everything as a couple. It’s perfectly OK to relax alone on the beach, while your partner explores the town. For families: hotels and holiday clubs often have childcare facilities. Use them if your kids enjoy what they have to offer! Treat yourself to some me time, you will enjoy the shared holiday moments afterwards all the more.

 

Tip 3: Leave the job at home

 

Are you one of those people who is constantly available to their colleagues even when on holiday? Do you check your emails and find it hard to tear yourself away from the mobile phone and laptop? Then leave the job at home immediately! Relaxation starts in the mind. The only batteries that you need to recharge while you are on holiday are your own – relax and recharge! If you are thinking about projects and to-do lists while you are on holiday, you will probably come back even more stressed. It’s better to make clear arrangements at work before you go away. Hand over important tasks to your colleagues and get someone to stand in for you if necessary. Nobody is indispensable!

 

Tip 4: You don’t always need to be on the go

 

Visiting museums, going on bus tours, trying out kite surfing and exploring the most beautiful bays – phew, that sounds like a full schedule on your holiday! Why not relax instead. Your holiday is not a competition for the best secret tips and most amazing sights. While you might collect some impressive posts for your social media account, your holiday will be far from stress-free. Tip: Do fewer activities, just choose those that really interest you. Use the rest of the time to relax. That doesn’t mean just lying on the beach. How about going for a walk in nature, reading or doing some yoga? But the same rule applies – do what makes you feel good!

 

Tip 5: Spoil yourself with the food

 

This is easy if you are staying in a hotel. You should be able to spoil yourself to your heart’s content with delicious meals. Even when you are on holiday, get plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and wholegrain products at the buffet. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water! Staying in a holiday home? Then make cooking as easy as possible to ensure a stress-free break. Buy healthy ingredients – ideally at a market – and conjure up some uncomplicated treats that don’t require too much effort. Why not try our grape and beetroot salad with feta, pineapple Buddha bowl or colourful roasted vegetables with pineapple and salmon? For stress-free car journeys with the kids, we recommend stocking up on our raspberry and almond muesli bars, banana and peanut energy balls or pineapple and oat cookies.

 

Here’s to a relaxed holiday!

 

Your Dole team