Ways to Truly Unwind on Spring Break

Spring Break is a time for escaping the mundane—the precursor to spring’s arrival which also serves as a time for enjoying family, friends, and perhaps a sunny destination. But sometimes, despite the miles traveled and having the perfect setting for relaxation, it can somehow still feel like you need a vacation from your vacation. We’ve been there! The good news is that it doesn’t have to be that way. 

Should your Spring Break travels take you on a trip away from home this year, keep these tips for truly unwinding top of mind.

UNPLUG

Repeat after us: Put the phone down! Easier said than done, it’s true, but turning on “Do Not Disturb” is going to do wonders for helping you feel like you’re actually on vacation. No mindless scrolling, no feelings of impending doom after seeing something you definitely didn’t need to on social media, no notifications from your work email. If that seems impossible for you, allow yourself 15 minutes twice a day just to catch up on the day’s news you may have missed. Otherwise, pretend it’s 1998.

Going on a trip for Spring Break is also the perfect opportunity to bring a good book with you! But here’s the thing: you have to bring it … and actually read it. Hit up any number of local book sellers and ask them for their suggestions on the newest beach read.

PACK LESS

While it may feel fun to plan out a million outfits and overthink all the things you might need for your trip, give yourself the gift of unburdening your mind by just going with the basics. You’ll have less choice (which will allow your brain to focus more on simply relaxing rather than settling on an outfit) and you won’t have to lug around a giant suitcase. If being stylish is still important, opt for items that all go well with each other, that way you can easily mix and match. You could also save some room by getting some vacuum-seal travel bags, perfect for adding some extra room in your luggage for anything you might want to purchase and bring home with you.

The non-negotiables that deserve space in your suitcase though? Sunscreen! Don’t skimp on the skincare or sun protection just because you’ve downsized your suitcase. It’s not worth the uncomfortable burn or the dangerous skin damage. Be sure to also stay hydrated by packing a reusable water bottle and some hydration packets, if that’s your thing. You’re more likely to get better REM cycle sleep if you’re properly hydrated! Also, who wants to try and relax or sleep with a sunburn? Not us.

BE PRESENT

Part of being able to successfully unwind is being able to notice the things happening around you. So many of us don’t anymore! We think we do, but we don’t really. Encourage yourself (and others with you, if necessary) to go with the flow. Let the day be what it is rather than what it “needs” to be (like following strict schedules at home). Remember the unplugging mentioned earlier? Take it a step further by bringing a small AM/FM radio with you to discover local radio stations, along with packing a disposable or film camera (both allow for listening to music and snapping photos without needing to take your phone out).

Wherever your travels take you, be sure to remember to unwind like it’s 1998.

Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.