Many people in the UAE believe that they require vacation-like activities or a staycation after returning from a holiday, especially following an extended summer break. Interestingly, research published in the Journal of Organisational Behaviour supports this idea, indicating that scheduling leisure activities after a vacation can help extend the fade-out period, particularly when those activities promote relaxation. Studies also indicate that scheduling a few short vacations or relaxing activities shortly after one’s return can help prolong the psychological and productivity benefits of a holiday.
Individuals in the UAE often struggle with re-adjusting to their daily routine after a vacation, feeling a sense of post-holiday blues. Khaleej Times reached out to residents who highlighted the challenges of returning to work after a break. American expat Natalia Miranda shared her experience, mentioning that she often feels lonely and tired after returning from a family vacation. To cope, she engages in more social activities and plans outings to fill her schedule and ease the pain of post-holiday blues.
Upon returning from a break, some individuals, like Natalia, dread checking their office mail, fearing urgent issues or negative feedback that may have arisen during their absence. Professionals like Shreya Chakraborty also experience post-vacation syndrome towards the end of their leave, feeling anxious about going back to daily responsibilities. To alleviate stress, they engage in activities to keep their minds preoccupied and plan mini-vacations to rejuvenate before returning to work.
Healthcare professionals note that individuals may feel the need for a vacation just to recover from a vacation due to vacation fatigue. To ease this feeling, experts recommend gradually re-entering the routine, taking a day off after returning, planning low-key activities, and practicing mindfulness to reconnect with their environment. Wellness coaches emphasize the importance of planning vacations that support emotional and mental recovery, focusing on personal development and wellness to turn travel into a truly restorative experience.
In conclusion, scheduling leisure activities after a vacation and planning short relaxing getaways can help extend the benefits of a holiday and alleviate post-holiday blues. Engaging in social activities, planning outings, and taking mini-vacations can help individuals cope with the challenges of returning to work after a break. By gradually re-entering the routine, practicing mindfulness, and focusing on emotional and mental recovery, individuals can make the transition back to daily responsibilities smoother and more manageable, turning travel into a restorative experience for overall well-being.
