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If you’ve read Optometric Management (OM) over the years, then you know that we’re bullish about taking vacations. In addition to articles that extol the benefits of vacations, Dr. Kirk Smick authored a series of travel-related articles for OM in the 2010s. 

As we approach the summer months, it’s as good a time as any to revisit the idea of getting away. A February WebMD.com article lists several benefits of travel, including improvements in mental health and creativity, as well as a release of stress. (Note that stress can negatively affect many diseases, including diabetes, the focus of this month’s “Practicing Medical Optometry” special section.)   

Improving focus and well-being
In the Annals of Tourism Research Empirical Insights (May 2022), Jan Packer, associate professor at the University of Queensland, presents research demonstrating that “taking a break increases the ability to focus attention and improves restorative well-being. ” (See bit.ly/SciDirVacation.) Dr. Packer’s research also lists strategies to gain the maximum benefits from vacations:

• Choose an environment that’s removed from your daily routine, while feeling comfortable and safe.

• Avoid confusing, chaotic environments.

• Spend time with activities that effortlessly hold your attention, such as relaxing in nature.

• Detach from work.

• Limit the number of work-like activities, such as using a computer.

• Avoid situations that can create discord or tension, such as tight schedules.

• Before taking time off, try to manage your work, so you don’t return to a large or overwhelming workload.

• Consider multiple short breaks throughout the year, rather than a single long vacation.

Essential for survival
A May 2021 article posted to forbes.com reminds us that the benefits of time off apply to the entire team, going as far as to state “taking vacation time is essential to employee survival.”

So, the next time someone tells you to “go jump in a lake,” why take it as an insult? It might be a suggestion for a healthy vacation activity. OM