There are a few suggestions from your doctor to keep healthy that have been fairly static for many years: drink 10 glasses of water a day, exercise, cut out the junk food, and get a good night’s rest. But now there is evidence suggesting that adding adequate vacation time helps just as much to preserve the health of your heart and reduce your overall likelihood of death by twenty percent. A collection of studies by Framingham and the State University of New York at Oswego found that men as well as women benefit from taking at least one yearly vacation. Also noting that Americans take less time off of work than their European counterparts, at about two weeks yearly compared to three or four in Europe.

The results of recent studies are astounding! Women who took only one vacation every six years were eight times more likely to develop heart disease than those who took two vacations yearly. More evidence suggests that women who take frequent vacations cut their overall risk of death by half! In addition, men who take yearly vacations reduced their risk of death by up to 20 percent and their risk of death by heart disease by up to 30 percent. Not only do vacations improve your health, but they are essential in reducing stress, improving marital intimacy, enhancing sleep, and balancing mood. Vacation time has always been highly desired, but with these findings it has become even more important to enjoy your time off!

One does not need to travel to the far expanses of the earth for a fix either. For many a direct flight to mexico can be the start of an all inclusive (and affordable) quick getaway. Or maybe a golf excursion with friends is the right prescription. No matter where you go it’s about time to take a vacation isn’t it?! We aren’t politely suggesting it…it’s doctor’s orders!

Lush tropical beaches may seem a far cry from the daily life of most North Americans, but by direct-flight, amazing destinations such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco are just a few short hours away! Within hours you can leave the suburbs or the city behind and be immersed in paradise. If you are lucky enough to live near one of these many airports, there is no reason not to take advantage of a free weekend… or evening! (more…)