How to have a more restful vacation - News

Shape, May, 2003 by Kathryn Perrotti Leavitt

Fifty-four percent of vacationers return home feeling worn out, a recent Gallup survey of 1,000 people found. "Vacations have become hyperdriven," says Roger Cadieux, M.D., a clinical professor of psychiatry at Penn State University. "We try to do too much and wind up getting stressed out and exhausted." To come back feeling refreshed, Cadieux offers these tips:

* Assess the relaxation value of what you're planning (e.g., does a trip to Disneyland offer enough downtime?).

* Build in an extra day before you leave and/or after you return to get organized and regroup. "The best place to relax is at home," Cadieux says.

* Keep your expectations and itinerary realistic.

* Book comfortable, quiet accommodations. Bringing your own pillow may help you sleep.

* Start packing a few days ahead.

* Plan your work to avoid last-minute cramming.

* Eat healthfully (an all-gelato diet isn't a balanced one) and limit your alcohol intake.