Here in Iowa it’s the middle of winter, so it’s a great time to think ahead to your next vacation! Whether you are dreaming of a tropical destination, visiting family in another region, or even a staycation in your own hometown, planning a vacation is a feel- good activity. In fact, it’s been proven that planning a vacation releases more endorphins and other “happy brain” chemicals than actually going on the trip!
Full disclosure- I started celebrating this one early. My niece has a special “duet” performance at her spring dance recital in early June, and so I’ve decided to make that the starting off point for my summer vacation. I have been weighing two possible destinations – Duluth MN or the Black Hills of SD- and I would have a good head start on either from there, so it just makes sense. Plus I often go on vacation in early to mid June. Tourist attractions in the Midwest are often a little less crowded then vs. later in the summer, and there usually aren’t many other folks on PTO at my work during these times.
So whether you haven’t given a single thought to your summer plans yet or if you have a detailed agenda already in place, spend a little time today thinking about vacation. It’s bound to put you in a good mood!