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Why Staycations Are Great for Stress Relief
Why Staycations Are Great for Stress Relief
Even when you love your job, there’s a good chance you’re looking forward to a much-needed vacation. A few days away for some R and R can help prevent burnout and allow you to return to work feeling more rejuvenated and ready to take on fresh challenges.
But have you ever found yourself thinking that you need a vacation to recover from your vacation? Sometimes, traveling can feel like just as much work as actually going to work. Dealing with luggage, airports, delays, and everything else that comes with taking a trip can leave you feeling like you’d rather just stay home—and many people are doing just that and scheduling staycations instead.
What is a staycation? It’s a vacation, but instead of venturing to some far-flung location, you stay home and enjoy your own community. The idea is to give yourself a break and unwind, recharge your batteries, and enjoy your local area without the hassles of traveling.
In fact, in many ways, a staycation might be the ultimate stressbuster and do more for your well-being than an extravagant trip ever could. Not convinced? Check out these benefits and staycation ideas to see how you might benefit from sticking close to home when using your PTO.
3 Ways a Staycation Benefits Your Mental Well-Being
There’s a lot to be said for the change of scenery and new experiences that come with travel, and a staycation doesn’t mean sacrificing that personal growth. In fact, depending on how you choose to spend your free time, you may even return to your routine feeling more inspired and fulfilled.
How can a few days at home do that?
1. Eliminate Travel Stress
When you take a staycation, you’re on your own timetable. You don’t need to worry about delayed flights, lost bags, or crowds. There’s no need to rush, and you’re not at the mercy of factors outside your control.
2. Choose What Makes You Happy
When you’re rushing from place to place or task to task every day, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Daily life can also be exhausting and keep you from doing the things you most enjoy. During a staycation, you can choose activities that you want to do, whether it’s tackling the stack of books next to your bed, lingering at the local coffee shop with a friend, or hiking a nearby trail.
A staycation is the ideal time to spend time on activities that you enjoy but don’t typically get a chance to do. Focus on self-care and things that make you feel relaxed, fulfilled, and happy, whether it’s a favorite hobby or just unwinding at a local spa or mineral hot springs
3. Time for Rest
All too often, when we travel, we’re so focused on seeing and doing “everything” in the destination that there’s no real time for rest and relaxation. Combine that with the fact that many people don’t always sleep well when away from home, and it’s no wonder so many of us arrive home feeling worse than when we left.
A staycation provides that time for uninterrupted rest. Whether you choose to stay at home or book a room in a local hotel for a night, this is the ideal time to just rest, get plenty of sleep, and take care of yourself. It’s amazing what a good night’s sleep can do for your stress levels!
The Best Ways to Relieve Stress on a Staycation
If you choose a staycation, the most important thing to do is treat it like any other trip. This means disconnecting from work and other daily sources of stress. Even though you’re staying local, that doesn’t mean your boss and coworkers can have access to you. Commit to unplugging and living in the moment, like you would if you were staying at a far-flung resort.
The next step is to create an itinerary. What are the things you want to do while on your staycation? You don’t have to pack every second with activities (and shouldn’t), but do give yourself something to look forward to by planning an experience or adventure.
Because you want to prioritize self-care, consider scheduling a massage or visit to local mineral hot springs. Research shows that soaking in a hot spring, for example, can reduce stress and pain levels, help improve sleep, and benefit your overall physical and mental well-being.
A staycation is the ideal time to act like a tourist in your own tone. Is there a restaurant you’ve always wanted to visit or a museum you’ve never explored? Now’s a great time to make that happen. Schedule a sightseeing tour, take a day trip to a nearby attraction, or just wander your city on your own and see what you can discover. You’ll gain a new appreciation for your home and have a good time.
Above all, your staycation should focus on relaxation and taking a break. You don’t have to fly to the other side of the world for a stress reset, and you might just find that hanging out close to home is exactly what you needed to return to work refreshed.
For an international experience close to home, explore the globally inspired mineral baths at WorldSprings. Enjoy hot and cold tubs, outdoor lounging, and spa and physical recovery services by booking your visit today.
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Skin Benefits of Hot Spring Soaks
on Oct 2, 2024 | 5 minutes
Skin Benefits of Hot Mineral Spring Soaks Soaking in a hot mineral spring feels wonderful for both the mind and body. But aside from feeling rejuvenated, are there any ways mineral springs benefit you physically? In particular, are hot springs good for your skin? Let’s find out. Is Mineral Water Good for Your Skin? As its name suggests, mineral water is rich with minerals, many of which benefit your skin. In fact, some minerals actually help make up your skin’s structure, while others have important biological functions. And while you can take in minerals through your diet, soaking in them is an excellent way to deliver them directly to your skin. In What Ways Are Hot Springs Good for Your Skin? Bathing in hot mineral springs has far-reaching benefits for your entire body. For your skin in particular, hot springs could hold the following advantages: Boost hydration to make your skin softer and more supple. Minimize inflammation, especially when caused by skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Control UV damage through antioxidants which neutralize the free radicals that harm your skin. These benefits are noteworthy on their own, but when we consider the ways in which specific minerals improve your skin’s wellness, the advantages are even more compelling. Mineral Water Benefits for Skin While there are many micronutrients our bodies use for everyday functions, there are some minerals in particular that benefit our skin in profound ways. Here are a few of the standout minerals in our springs that can play a role in supporting healthier skin. Silica Also known as silicon dioxide, silica is found naturally in rivers, quartz, sand, and even volcanic magma. Historically, the material has been leveraged for its strengthening properties, and is commonly found in cement and asphalt. It’s therefore no surprise that it helps keep things together in our bodies, too. As an essential building block, silica is responsible for the flexibility and structure of our connective tissues, as well as protection for our organs. Because it bonds with proteins such as collagen, it also plays a role in your skin’s vitality — which is why soaking in our silica-rich springs, like Iceland & Italy, can be so beneficial to your skin’s health. Sodium If your skin feels better after a day at the beach, it’s not your imagination: the sodium in salt water can act as a gentle exfoliator, sloughing away dead skin cells and opening your pores for a deep cleanse. In moderation, it could also dry out the bacteria that causes zits and reduce inflammation caused by acne. For the most sodium-rich experience available, head to the hypersaline waters of our Dead Sea Float Pool, and allow the ultra-nourishing benefits of the rich saltwater soak in. Bicarbonate Bicarbonate is a base, which your body uses to maintain a healthy pH balance. Also found in baking soda, bicarbonate is believed to have immense skin benefits. In fact, it’s recognized for its therapeutic properties by the National Eczema Association, and may also be helpful for conditions such as acne, psoriasis, insect bites, poison ivy, and certain fungal infections. Numerous pools on our property are rich in bicarbonate, including: Australia & Bali Japan & Korea Guatemala & Mexico Magnesium When it comes to mineral water benefits for skin health, we’d be remiss not to mention the merits of magnesium. Many people take the mineral orally for its potential mood-boosting and muscle health perks, but the micronutrient packs a powerful punch for skin health, too. In your skin, magnesium is responsible for aiding in hydration and barrier repair, as well as supporting skin regeneration and cell turnover. Further, applying magnesium directly to your skin could minimize sun damage, calm rosacea, alleviate dryness, and enhance its overall appearance. This dynamic mineral is featured in the following regions: Dead Sea Float Pool Guatemala & Mexico Australia & Bali Japan & Korea Potassium Potassium is a potent electrolyte with several important jobs in our body. In terms of skin health, the mineral helps to maintain adequate hydration levels (which is why your skin looks dried out when you’ve been sweating a lot, thus losing potassium). As a component of our skin’s intercellular matrix, potassium also helps support its natural barrier function and shedding process. Find potassium-rich waters in: Australia & Bali Iceland & Italy Japan & Korea Guatemala & Mexico While it’s clear that minerals are not only beneficial but actually essential to our skin health, the unique advantage of mineral springs is that these micronutrients actually work best when combined with warm water, which is exactly how you can enjoy them in our springs. Ths delivery method allows for optimal absorption, and because our springs contain several different minerals in one source, your skin can get a multitude of benefits from a single soak. Relax at WorldSprings At WorldSprings, we’re committed to providing the most serene, rejuvenating experience for adults. Set against the backdrop of Colorado’s hillside in the Rocky Mountains, our Iron Mountain Hot Springs boasts 32 pools, including a Dead Sea Float Pool, for a chance to experience waters from around the world. Our WorldSpring Dallas location in Texas features 46 pools – the perfect opportunity to try waters from Mexico, Japan, and even Australia and Bali. Are you ready to pamper your skin in a soothing hot mineral spring? Book your soak online now!
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Mineral Hot Springs in Utah | Near Zion National Park
on Oct 3, 2024 | 2 minutes
Experience Rejuvenating Mineral Hot Springs in Utah Utah is a destination for adventurers, nature lovers and everyone in between. Zion National Park is its crown jewel, spanning three counties in the southwestern region. From biking and birdwatching to camping and canyoneering, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around the park. No trip to southern Utah is complete without a relaxing soak in mineral hot springs. There’s no better way to unwind after exploring the national park or swooshing down local ski slopes—and the area is just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, making it a popular destination for people looking to get away from the Strip. If you’re traveling out West, add Zion Canyon Hot Springs and its 53 bodies of water to your itinerary. Services & Amenities When looking for hot springs in Utah for the entire family, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is the ideal vacation activity. It’s only 30 minutes from Zion National Park, so you can indulge in our services and amenities after a busy day of hiking or cycling. Meet Our Mineral Springs Our expansive facility has a dedicated area for families to stretch out while creating lasting memories, as well as adults-only spaces that are perfect for a romantic getaway or to give Mom and Dad a break. You’ll find 32 natural hot spring pools at varying temperatures and 16 pools inspired by tranquil destinations around the world, allowing you to experience the soothing embrace of mineral-rich water. Refresh and Restore Unwind in one of our three saunas, reawaken your senses with a plunge in a cold dip pool, or wade in the larger freshwater pool or whirlpool after a hot soak. Need to refuel after a session? Pick up drinks at the bar and café or enjoy snacks poolside. Benefits of Mineral Hot Spring Soaks After a long day exploring Zion National Park, even the most athletic visitors might experience muscle soreness or tightness. Steamy mineral hot spring soaks can aid recovery, as the heat eases muscle tension and discomfort. Cold plunges also benefit the body. The frigid water helps muscles bounce back quickly after exercise and can reduce post-workout soreness. Beyond the physical benefits for active travelers, immersion in mineral-rich water can help make skin look clearer and firmer. Floating in hot water can also reduce stress levels, creating a sense of calm, and releasing endorphins for an uplifting effect. When you’re exploring the American West and find yourself typing “mineral hot springs near me” into your phone, take it as a sign to book a memorable experience at Zion Canyon Hot Springs.
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on Oct 4, 2024 | 3 minutes
The Importance of Muscle Recovery During Active Vacations For you, vacations are much more than lounging on the beach — they’re an opportunity to seek thrills, find adventure, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you spend your days off biking, hiking, skiing, or kayaking, you always get your workouts in. But even the most active travelers need time to rest. While planning your daily activities, it’s smart to pencil in muscle recovery days. Giving your body a chance to recuperate will ensure you have the energy to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Why You Should Incorporate Rest Days Into Your Active Vacation All workouts put stress on your body. While this is essential for building strength, endurance, and overall better health, your body mostly sees the fruits of your labor after your workout — during muscle recovery. As your muscles recover from exercise, they become slightly stronger than they were before. 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Try going for a swim if your lodging has a pool, stretching out with gentle yoga, or taking the opportunity to lightly sightsee on foot. 2. Relax There’s nothing wrong with resting up during your muscle recovery day. If you feel exhausted from the days’ activities, feel free to sit back, relax, and let your body do the healing. Passive recovery is an equally effective way to restore your energy and stamina. 3. Get Plenty of Nutrients The food you eat plays a major role in the recovery process. Depending on where you travel, the restaurants around you might not meet your nutritional needs. It’s a good idea to do your research and plan ahead. Lean proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates are the best nutrients for muscle recovery after workouts. Look for restaurants with nutritious options and pack healthy snacks like blueberries, low-fat string cheese, whole grain crackers with peanut butter, nuts, or Greek yogurt. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated every day. 4. 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We’ve crafted an expert-endorsed Mineral Method wellness circuit designed by Dr. Sara Gottfried for athletic recovery, which focuses on soothing overworked muscles and enhancing muscle repair. First, you’ll soak in a warm pool in Yarrangobilly, Australia of the South Pacific Region at 100°F or less for 15-20 minutes. Next, you’ll take a cold plunge. We recommend repeating this circuit 2-3 times for the most targeted benefits, including relaxed muscles, improved sleep, and reduced inflammation. Dr. Gottfried, a Harvard Medical School-educated doctor, researcher, and bestselling author, is an expert in overall wellness, including cortisol levels, diet, and hormones. The Mineral Method is an exclusive wellness circuit that aims to provide guests with the most effective and targeted full-body wellness. The Benefits of Hot Mineral Waters and Cold Plunges for Muscle Recovery Hot springs, especially mineral waters, have long been thought to possess healing properties. While their medicinal uses have changed over time, there’s little doubt today that thermal waters can benefit sore bodies and overworked muscles. The warm hot springs waters can help improve blood flow throughout the body, delivering essential oxygen and nutrients to cells. It can decrease swelling and inflammation, and the buoyancy of the water itself eases the pressure on tense joints. The minerals may help alleviate muscle pain while promoting relaxation. Although it takes the opposite approach, a cold plunge has similar effects. The icy water constricts your blood vessels to slow blood flow and relieve soreness and swelling. While some prefer sticking to one or the other, rotating between hot and cold water can give you the best of both worlds. Relax Your Muscles at WorldSprings WorldSprings hot mineral waters and cold plunges make the perfect addition to your active vacation, providing a luxurious and serene recovery experience. Whether you choose to relax at our iconic Iron Mountain Hot Springs location in Colorado or our WorldSprings Dallas pools in Texas, you’ll experience a relaxing oasis that will melt away stress. Book your visit and discover a new way to relax your muscles!
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