Not all Dutch people spend their vacations lounging on the beach. It’s estimated that 15% of trips abroad and 25% of domestic trips are active holidays — such as cycling tours or hiking trips. But which is healthier: an active holiday or a lazy one?
Holidays are healthy for four main reasons: First, they offer rest and recovery from work. Second, they allow for enjoyable activities. Third, they give freedom to choose how the days are structured. And finally, they often involve spending quality time with friends, family, or partners.
Not everyone needs physical rest. If you have a physically demanding job, it makes sense to let your body recover. For example, professional footballers need a break after a year of matches. But for most people with office jobs, physical rest may not be necessary.
There are four reasons why people go on holiday: to rest, to have fun, to learn something (like during cultural excursions), or to prove to the world or themselves that they live an interesting life.
This can be done in both active and inactive ways. The key is not the exact structure of the vacation, but rather whether it fits the person’s personality and situation. Some people unwind after a challenging bike ride, while for others this might actually cause stress.
If someone is dealing with rumination or obsessive thoughts, an active vacation may be more beneficial than a lazy one. Physical activity can reduce overthinking and releases hormones that promote relaxation.
However, no matter how perfect the vacation is, the effect is only temporary. After returning home, most travelers return to their previous level of well-being fairly quickly.