Expert tips on creating vacation vibes IRL.
Around me, passengers hurried to find their gates.
Children asked their grownups for whatI could only assumewas their fourth snack.
Everyone moved around chaotically, searching for their next destination.
I basked in that moment.
When I returned from Miami, everything felt different.
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Everything felt fresh and exciting, and I was up for new challenges.
I wanted to make that post-vacation feeling of optimism and excitement last as long as possible.
How do I make #MomsInMiami last as long as possible without being poolside?
Caroline Given, a life coach and therapist, likens a post-vacation mindset to an impressionist painting.
“Vacations provide that clarity and perspective when you return home.
you might see the big picture, differentiate your priorities, and feel mentally and emotionally refreshed.”
Unsplash/Designed by Tiana Crispino
“Even if you’re not particularly stressed or burned out, everyday life can make us myopic.
We can start making poor decisions, ignoring or diminishing our accomplishments, and lacking gratitude.”
She recommends asking yourself what three things are a priority and structuring your time accordingly.
Read on for their thoughts.
According to Given, changing your physical environment is vital.
McCoy recommends visiting state parks or exploring local restaurants as a powerful way to satisfy your sense of curiosity.
Hafeez recommends taking a language class or a cultural course on food, music, or literature.
“you might meet people with similar interests who could become groups for future travel.
It’s incredible what happens when you open yourself up to that possibility,” she says.
Journey back to nature
Remember how you loved going outside as a child?
There are ways to incorporate this throw in of stillness into your everyday life.
“Use your commute for quiet and introspection,” McCoy says.
She suggests adding journaling to your evening routine or sitting outside without headphones or digital devices for 15 minutes.
“Add a short mindfulness practice or build deep breathing into your workday.”
We can apply this same anticipation to our weekends or other events in our lives.
She notes that it’s about having a break from routine thats exciting and offers a reset.
“Make small changes in your home that liven things up visually.
A nice throw blanket, pillow, painting, or photograph can make your space feel new.”
Hafeez recommends planning time with your family to nurture connections beyond vacation.
“Going on walks with family during the week is a great place to start,” she says.
McCoy adds that it is important to set intentions and have discussions with your loved ones.
The good news is: Plans don’t have to be grandiose.
Create small self-care routines
“Use your senses to replicate your vacation experiences,” McCoy says.
“Buy candles that smell like your favorite destination.
Re-create a favorite vacation meal or try a local restaurant that reminds you of your favorite getaway.”
For example, listening to music while you cook or spending a few extra minutes in the shower.
Above all, take the time to reflect on what about vacation helps you feel like your best self.
From there, find simple and creative ways to add these into your life.
