We all need some time off to relax and recharge our internal batteries. But with so much focus placed on work, the only time we get to truly devote ourselves to taking a break are those two weeks of vacation, plus the occasional holiday.
But it doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, it shouldn’t be like that. Taking the occasional day off is not just good for our overall health (both physical, but especially mental), but our work performance as well.
With so much focus spent on long holidays, it’s easy to forget that we have weekends at our disposal as well. These two days (or more, if we leave right after finishing up work on Friday) can be used to great effect if we plan them out in advance. A short and sweet mini-vacation, perfect for an exciting adventure, or a tranquil retreat – alone, or with your family, friends, or a loved one.
Here are a couple of tried and true concepts you can base your weekend getaways around.
Bed & Breakfast
An ideal romantic outing, a quaint little bed & breakfast somewhere out in the country can be a great choice if you are looking to reignite the sparks of passion in a relationship, or simply want to spend a carefree weekend where you won’t have to worry about cooking, shopping for groceries, or making your own bed.
Many bed and breakfasts are owned by families, so home-cooked meals and a warm, serene atmosphere are a given.
Spa
On the other hand, maybe you are looking for a more rejuvenating and reinvigorating experience. A spa weekend could be just the thing you need to feel refreshed, with plenty of services aimed at your physical well being.
Massages, hydrotherapy, exercise, classes, and other treatments are paired with beauty parlor treatments such as facials, mud baths, pedicures, manicures, waxing, and more.
A Cabin by the Lake or in the Woods
If you are looking for a cross between the ruggedness of the great outdoors and modern luxuries such as heating, electricity, and home appliances – a cabin by the lake or in the woods could be just what you need.
You can alternate between going swimming, fishing, bird watching, and taking a nap or reading your favorite book in a comfy sofa – all while breathing in that crisp air.
This sort of weekend getaway is perfect if you are looking for some alone time. Even if you don’t personally own such a secluded cabin, you can easily find and rent one out online.
Camping
But for those looking to reconnect with nature, nothing beats camping. Taking long nature hikes, building your own fires, setting up tents – there is something deeply primal and satisfying about surviving on your own deep in the wilderness.
Even for people who otherwise dislike having to make their own way without constant internet service or those that hate bugs and other creepy crawlies, camping can be a great and even a potentially life-changing experience.
