Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you don’t need a vacation! Summer, the heat and the good weather encourage us to live at a different speed. Did you know that summer holidays have many benefits? Here are seven that should convince you to take it easy in the coming weeks.
1. Rest
Let’s do like the South Americans and take advantage of the hot periods to take a nap! Without kidding, summer is a great time to recover the lost hours of sleep, because we often have fewer obligations. Your body will thank you for those banking hours when the light starts to fall.
2. Living at a slower pace
Daily life is full of little stresses that accumulate: arriving on time for planned activities, taking health or personal care appointments, planning outings and visits… Since summer, many activities take a break and our loved ones are on vacation, we can afford to live in slow motion. You want to sleep in the middle of the week? Why not! It is very soothing to follow your inner rhythm.
3. Take advantage of social opportunities
Summer is the time for gatherings with friends or family. Barbecues, friendly tournaments, bonfires, picnics, larks! All occasions are good to see each other, especially if the weather is on our side. In addition, the pandemic has taught us that when we gather outdoors, the risks of contamination of all kinds are greatly reduced. So we can meet without worry.
4. Improving our health
By reducing our stress during the summer, we reduce the production of cortisol, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in stressful situations. However, this hormone plays a role in certain diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity. In addition, reducing stress lowers blood pressure. As a bonus, take advantage of the sun to take a good dose of vitamin D, which contributes to the health of bones, muscles and the immune system.
5. Discoveries are being made
Who says holidays, often says travel! Summer is the season of choice to go on an adventure and discover new landscapes. Did you know that about 28% of Canadians say that discovery is one of the main benefits of their travels? Travelling gives us intellectual stimulation, not to mention that we then keep wonderful memories to cherish the rest of the year.
6. Exploring seasonal activities
It is a pleasure to find his favorite activity on the occasion of sunny days. Some enjoy quiet activities, such as gardening, forest walking, fishing or golf. Others like to surpass themselves on canoe, kayak or bike tours. Enjoy every moment, because in Quebec, these activities focus on a short period.
7. Attend summer events
The Laurentians come alive all summer with a varied program of festivals, shows and gatherings! Discover our suggestions for cultural outings or shopping in our article What to do in the Laurentians this summer? In short, summer is a time to play and… to rest. We wish you to make the most of your holidays and, above all, to think of you!