Americans are notorious for not taking their vacation time. We have work, work, work mentality, and a belief that no one can fill our shoes if we go. With the circumstances surrounding us, it has never been more critical to plan and take that vacation. Whether you travel near or far, the benefits will be well worth it.

Here are 5 Benefits of Taking a Vacation

1. Lower stress-When you get away from the daily grind, you will tune-up your brain and be more productive when you return. 
2. Lowers the risk of heart disease-work is stressful. Working “under the gun” day in and day out taxes our systems. The more taxed you are, the harder those systems have to work. Taking the break lets us system restore and repair. Just like a vehicle that needs its maintenance, so do you.
3. Improves your outlook on life-Vacation provides a time to “stop and smell the roses.” You slow down and get the opportunity to see and enjoy the things around you, lift your spirits, and provide a new perspective on your current situation.
4. Motivation-When you are relaxed and energized, you are automatically more inclined to work on things. We may even come up with new ideas we hadn’t thought of before now that our mind is clear. 
5. Improves Relationships-Vacations provide a space and time to be together. A time where you can focus on yourself, your significant other, and your family. Allowing time to see one another and not just be “ships passing in the night.”

The crazy thing is most of these results come about when in the planning phase of your vacation. Just planning the trip can start to increase your motivation, lower stress, improve your outlook on life, and deepen your relationships. Whether you are ready to embark now or whether you want to plan deep into the future, now is the time to start reaping the benefits of a vacation.