Holidays can have numerous benefits for your health. Not only can you improve your general well-being, but they can also boost your immune system and production of white blood cells. These are important components in your body’s immune system. When you take a holiday, you can spend quality time with family and friends, as well as get some exercise. Here are some other health benefits of holidays that you should know about. Hopefully, these health benefits will encourage you to take advantage of them this year.
Spending money on others
One study found that spending money on others has many health benefits, not just financial. A study conducted by Ashley Whillans, a doctoral student in the Social Psychology department at the University of British Columbia, found that people who spend money on others had lower blood pressure. The benefits of spending money on others were comparable to the effects of exercising and taking antihypertensive medication.
Stress reduction
The holiday season is supposed to be a time for celebration, but it can quickly turn into a source of anxiety. In addition to cramming for multiple holiday parties, many people also find themselves feeling too exhausted to engage in fun activities. Fortunately, there are several ways to decrease holiday stress. A simple exercise practice can help you sleep better and fall asleep faster. A regular exercise practice can also boost serotonin, your feel-good hormone.
Relaxation
Studies show that taking a vacation can have many positive effects on our physical and mental health. According to professor Timo Strandberg of the University of Helsinki, vacations can help us release our stress and improve our overall health. A study by Gump and Matthews revealed that not taking a holiday was associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. This study supports the notion that taking a holiday can boost your immunity and reduce blood pressure.
Fitness
One of the many benefits of taking a break from work is the improved productivity. Stress relief and a relaxed state of mind are some of the benefits of holidays. The time off work also allows you to focus and think clearly, reducing stress and burnout. Holidays can also boost your creativity. During your break, you can get some exercise, which is good for your physical and mental health. You can try out new hobbies or activities while on vacation.
Increased serotonin levels
The holiday season is often associated with an increase in serotonin levels, a chemical present in the body that helps regulate many bodily functions. Serotonin is produced by the body by combining tryptophan with an enzyme, and is found most often in the brain. It acts as a neurotransmitter, relaying messages throughout the brain. If your serotonin levels are low, you might be more likely to suffer from depression during the holidays.
Improved immune system
Holidays are a time of stress and high sugar intake, making it important to eat foods that support a strong immune system. Additionally, holiday travel can expose you to more germs, which can compromise your immune system. To stay healthy during the holiday season, you should eat lots of vitamin C-rich foods, stay physically active, and get at least 7 hours of sleep per night.