Longer, active breaks boost well-being, researchers say

Research compiled by the University of Georgia indicates that vacations enhance both mental and physical health, leading to higher life satisfaction and lower exhaustion after returning to work. The benefits are strongest when trips are longer, include regular exercise, and involve strict detachment from work emails and calls. Scholars such as Xavier Montero recommend ten-day breaks distributed across the year, while Ryan D. Grant notes the average studied vacation lasted twelve days but cautions that no single duration is proven optimal.

Clinical psychologist Arturo Lecumberri adds that maintaining good sleep, diet, and gradual transitions into and out of vacation further supports recovery. Studies also suggest that traveling away from home may foster greater well-being than staying put, though logistical stress can offset some advantages. Finally, experts advise a buffer of one or two days before resuming work to smooth the shift back to routine.