As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, and close out the academic year, now is a great time to reflect on your well-being.  Though the last two years ushered in tremendous change, one fundamental fact has not changed: we all need time to recharge.

Ultimately the responsibility of taking care of “you” starts with you.  It is not selfish to take care of your own needs — it is imperative.  Studies have shown that taking time away from the job can have physical and mental health benefits.  People who take vacations have lower stress, less risk of heart disease, a better outlook on life, and time away can even spur greater creativity.  Did you know that Lin-Manuel Miranda conceived the play Hamilton while on vacation?

Here are some guidelines to help you reap the benefits of vacation, wherever you go.

Get a change in scenery. Vacation doesn’t need to entail extensive travel. The fun of it is going somewhere that is different from your daily life. This may be a short drive from home, an extended road trip, or an excursion to the other side of town. For day and weekend trips, consider checking out one of Iowa’s amazing state parks.

Plan. Being spontaneous on occasions can be exciting, but pre-planning gives you something to look forward to, creating a sense of joy.  Even if you’re only going across town, you can still identify which days you’re going to take off and plan what you’re going to do in advance. Not interested in a long drive? Check out the events highlighted on the Catch Des Moines website.

Identify the type of experience you want to have. The ideal vacation is different for everyone. For some, it’s soaking up the sun by the water. For others, it’s a creative pursuit, exploring a new location, trying new cuisine, or engaging in an adventure sport. Knowing this will help you decide potential destinations and activities. If trying a new food or restaurant sounds good to you, check out the list of DSM restaurants on the Catch Des Moines website.

Spend time outdoors. Spending time in nature can benefit you both mentally and physically. Whether you’re traveling or staying home, build in time outdoors as part of your vacation.  Take a morning walk, fish on a lake, watch the waves crash at the beach or enjoy a picnic in a park. If you are looking for a new walk adventure, check out a Des Moines trail that you haven’t explored before. There are plenty to choose from!

Unplug. Unplugging from work can be difficult, but it is a big part of what makes vacation feel like vacation. It’s down time for your brain, creates the space for creativity to emerge and allows you to be fully present with your family and travel partners. Unplugging is easier said than done. Here are a few tips that may be helpful.

Create memories. Vacations are a great opportunity to create lasting, positive memories.  Recalling those happy memories can head off stress, anxiety, and depression. Capture fun moments with your smartphone, through journaling, or start a gratitude jar. You’ll enjoy revisiting these memories in the months and years to come.

As easy as it might be to keep on working and skip a vacation, don’t. Taking some time away can provide you with an experience that leaves you refreshed and re-energized, and you don’t have to go very far to do it. So, get packing and go. You’ll be glad you did.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources