Americans have fewer vacation days than many European countries, yet about 55% of us don’t even use all of the paid time off we get.
There are many reasons you may not take time off from work. Maybe money is tight and you don’t want the added expense of a trip. Or you work from home so you don’t think you deserve time off because you’re not in the office. Whatever the reason, think twice before throwing away your vacation days. Not only are they due to you, but taking time off may help keep you healthier.
Research shows that working 55 hours or more a week may be associated with a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from heart disease compared to working 40 hours or less. Working from home doesn’t help. When your home is also your office, it may be harder to disconnect. Not taking a break from work means you don’t get a break from work-related stress and anxiety.
Need some motivation to use your vacation days? Here are 5 good-for-you reasons to do so:
Rising prices have a lot of people worried about the cost of a vacation this year, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time off from work. Just take a staycation instead! Disengaging from work to enjoy some fun, relaxing time at home can do just as much for your physical and mental health as traveling to a far off destination. Explore sites around town, treat your backyard like a tropical paradise or work on a fun hobby. Regularly spending time in nature has also been shown to improve health and wellbeing.
Copyright 2022-2023 © Baldwin
Publishing, Inc..
Health eCooks™ is a designated
trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without
the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
By participating in this quiz, or screening or health assessment, I recognize and accept all risks associated with it. I understand that the program will only screen for certain risk factors and does not constitute a complete physical exam. For the diagnosis of a medical problem, I must see a physician for a complete medical exam. I release Deborah Heart and Lung Center and any other organization(s) involved in this screening, and their employees and agents, from all liabilities, medical claims or expenses which may arise from my participation. Thank you for investing in your health by participating today.