By Cybill Vargas | July 11, 2026

This week, I have the opportunity to take some muchneeded time off from work, and it has reminded me how fortunate I am. Taking a vacation is a privilege. It often requires careful planning, financial resources, and the ability to step away from work responsibilities. Whether that time is spent exploring a new city, visiting family, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, having the chance to rest is something many people long for. 

When we think about vacations, we often picture beaches, mountains, or exciting adventures. But here's something I've learned over the years: rest doesn't require a plane ticket.  

Some of my favorite vacations have happened right at home. Instead of packing a suitcase, I fill my days with the things I rarely have time to do during a busy workweek. I take a Pilates class in the middle of the morning, spend extra time at the gym, attend yoga, cook healthy meals, catch up on cleaning, walk my dog without watching the clock, sleep a little later, or simply curl up on the couch with a good movie. These "staycations" leave me feeling refreshed, grounded, and more like myself.  

Science tells us there's a good reason for that: *Research consistently shows that taking time away from work improves mental well-being, reduces stress, and decreases emotional exhaustion. 

*A large meta-analysis examining dozens of studies found that vacations significantly improve overall wellbeing, especially when people are able to mentally disconnect from work rather than continuing to answer emails or think about unfinished tasks. 

*Researchers have also found that where you spend your vacation matters less than how you spend it. 

*A randomized controlled trial comparing people who traveled away with those who stayed home found that both groups experienced meaningful improvements in stress levels and well-being. Simply taking a break from normal work responsibilities provided significant psychological benefits. 

Rest is not laziness—it's a biological necessity. Chronic stress activates our stress-response system, increasing hormones like cortisol. Without intentional periods of recovery, that stress accumulates, affecting our mood, sleep, concentration, relationships, and even our physical health. Rest allows our nervous system to reset, helping us return to our responsibilities with greater energy, patience, and resilience. One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is, "I'll rest when everything is done." The truth is, everything is rarely done. There will always be another email to answer, another load of laundry, another appointment to schedule, or another responsibility waiting. 

We can choose to build rest into our lives on purpose. Maybe that's a weeklong vacation. Maybe it's a long weekend. Or maybe it's simply protecting an afternoon to read a book, take a walk, practice yoga, spend time in nature, or enjoy an uninterrupted cup of coffee. Rest isn't something we earn after we've exhausted ourselves. It's one of the ways we stay healthy enough to keep showing up for the people and responsibilities we care about. 

As I enjoy this week away from work, I'm reminding myself that this time isn't just a break from my job—it's an investment in my well-being. And when I return, I'll be able to give my clients, family, and friends the best version of myself. Maybe that's what rest is really about. Not escaping life—but restoring ourselves so we can fully live it.