Mailbag: Harness the HEALING Power of Vacation
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted August 15, 2023
“Do you have a favorite vacation spot?”
– Hannah from Milwaukee, WI
Hi Hannah,
I’m glad you asked this because taking a trip can improve your health and well-being in many ways.
A vacation does WONDERS for your mental health. It gives you a break from your daily routine so you can rest and unwind. And stepping away from work or other responsibilities reduces stress, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, and makes you feel more relaxed.
Plus, when vacationing, we tend to be more active. Instead of spending hours parked on the couch in front of the boob tube or chained to a desk, we’re out and about.
Activities like walking, hiking, swimming, or playing sports for fun are all often on the menu. And all that exercise is FANTASTIC for your heart and mental health.
In fact, research shows folks who vacation more often have LOWER heart disease risk factors. (Talk about an enjoyable way to fight off heart problems!)
Vacations are EVEN good for our relationships. A holiday with the folks you care about strengthens your bonds and leads to even greater happiness.
My favorite vacation is to strap on a backpack and head into the woods.
I like to hike alone or with friends and family. And I really enjoy being in wild spaces where you only have to worry about getting water and finding a place to pitch your tent.
Plus, the benefits of the clean air, sun exposure, and exercise are priceless.
As far as specific vacation spots go, Monterey, California, holds a special place in my heart. I like the cooler ocean and the environment in that area. And it’s quiet and peaceful, despite being close to San Francisco and San Jose.
Feeling stressed, burned out, or generally blah? I prescribe a vacation…. and then DON’T call me in the morning (because you won’t need to).
P.S. Not sure WHERE to go on vacation? Pick a spot that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Nature is healing. Plus, it could literally keep you out of the hospital.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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