Dubai, United Arab Emirates-: As humans, we spend a lot of time imagining the future. This future-mindedness can be both a source of joy if we have something to look forward to, or a cause for dread and concern.
With autumn upon us, the reality of school runs and long days in the office can seem bleak for those returning to their regular routines. Equally, anyone who remained at their desks throughout the summer can experience the worst kind of burnout after watching their colleagues travel to remote locations and glamorous resorts.
Feelings of apathy or anxiety can create a vicious cycle, from which it is hard to break free. Whilst everyone experiences some degree of disinterest from time to time, there are some definite actions to help combat the post-summer blues. Here are some tips and tricks on how to do just that:
- Plan a Vacation
There is one activity that has been proven to improve unclutter the mind and enhance empathy, attention, energy and focus. A change of scenery can help neurologically as a distinct break and unique form of rest. Indeed, studies show that planning and anticipating a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the experience itself – with some travellers even preferring to delay a trip to extend this period of excitement[1]. Whether it’s a European city break or your dream vacation in the Maldives, having something to look forward to is vitally important for a person’s overall mental state.
- Embrace Nature
Psychologists suggest that nature has healing powers, bolstered by research which indicates spending time by the sea or in green spaces is good for our well-being and even our relationships.[2] The sun can also be our body and mind’s best friend – generating the production of vitamin D, lowering blood pressure and promoting good mental health.
Travellers should head to the Maldives for more than 2,700 hours of sunshine a year.[3] Certain islands, such as Bolifushi and Maadhoo – both of which house luxurious resorts by THE OZEN COLLECTION – are surrounded by clear, crystal waters in every direction and have over-water villas that enable guests to fall asleep to the lulling sound of the Indian Ocean.
- Get Active
It’s an established fact that exercise releases endorphins, lowers stress levels, enhances sleep quality and improves self-esteem. Whilst your gym at home might be uninspiring, with the same old workout routines and same blank white walls, motivating yourself to move might be as simple as switching to a new environment.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO is home to an iconic overwater gymnasium with stunning lagoon views and state-of-the-art equipment. Since there is no one-size-fits-all activity programme, guests can also find an oceanside tennis court, luxurious spa, salt pool, steam sauna facilities, and group or personalised training sessions. Elsewhere, at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the hotel includes a yoga pavilion and offers complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the stunning grounds.
- Explore New Passions
If lifting weights or cycling isn’t for you, why not try a different hobby? By setting a goal to learn something new and devoting just a few minutes a day, you can become an expert in something you never dreamed possible – whether that’s reading all of Dickens’ works, volunteering for community-led initiatives, or achieving your scuba diving certification.
Again, there’s nowhere better to start than at THE OZEN COLLECTIONS’s Best Dives or Dolphin Base Water Sports Centres. Thrilling activities such as snorkelling, jet-skiing, fishing adventures, kayaking, and fly-boarding allow underwater discoveries, with guidance and conservation efforts from renowned marine biologists.
It is clear that despite 62% of people not making the most of their annual leave in 2022, doing so is essential in avoiding burnout and prioritising self-care.[4] A great vacation is a reminder of everything beyond work; it reinforces the importance of family, friends and all that life has to offer.
This sense of wonder is more accessible than ever with THE OZEN COLLECTION in the Maldives, where the constant sunshine and a wealth of curated experiences bring loved ones together for the holiday of a lifetime.