age is really just a number

Here is a prescription for a vacation. Yes, I’m talking to you. You need a vacation. Unfortunately, I don’t think your health insurance will pay for it, but you definitely need one.

And I’m not talking about the kind of vacation where you have a sightseeing agenda daily or traipsing kids around all the Disney parks. No, I’m talking about a vacation where you find your happy place and sit under an umbrella, or a tree, or on a boat and actually relax. Read a book. Take a leisurely walk and lots of naps. I also recommend unplugging from your phone, email and social media. Totally relax and recharge.

So, it turns out vacations are an integral part of achieving a longer, happier, healthier life. Why?

Inflammation has been shown to be one of the main culprits in the aging process. It is also been shown that inflammation goes a little haywire as we age; and it’s been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders. 

So, fighting inflammation really is the key to fighting early aging.

Inflammation has been solidly linked to chronic stress. Chronic stress causes adrenal insufficiency by triggering our adrenal glands to flood your body with cortisol until we just can’t make anymore; and our failing adrenal glands just give up. 

Chronic stress can be managed with a better diet, exercise, meditation, and proper rest. This is really why you need a vacation.

I’ve just returned from the Pacific Northwest floating on friend’s boat around the San Juan Islands. It was amazing how fast I relaxed. We’ve been out on the boat before, and I think that just like muscle memory my brain realized where I was and instantaneously all my prior angst and anxiety dissipated. We were unplugged floating along in almost chilly weather (which is so much better than 100° in Texas) in pristine nature with good friends. Simple, peaceful and relaxing. In our pictures, I even look younger. The lines on my face softened, no crease in my brow, and an easy smile. Life is good on vacation.

I definitely without a shred of doubt believe everyone benefits from an unplugging. Although technology has advanced or civilization in so many ways it has actually made us more stressed and less social. What was supposed to make us more efficient has actually just made us busier and more harried. At least once or twice a year your body and soul need to relax and take a vacation from the hustle and bustle. It definitely will help you live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

So, if you want a prescription for a vacation to give to your boss, spouse, or kids; send me an email I’d be happy to write you one. What you do with it is up to you, but believe me: You need a vacation!