Feeling good is the ultimate need of any human being and the quality of life revolves around one’s ability to feel good. It involves taking care of both one’s physical health and emotional needs. As children, we have been trying to feel good either by eating sweets or playing with our toys. As adults, we find other things, like holidaying by the sea with the breeze caressing our body, getting a promotion at work, entering into exciting project, that make us feel good.

The desire to feel good is an eternal desire, though the methods vary. In an agrarian society, religious activities and festivals were the predominant tools. After industrialization, gadgets, formal holidays encapsulated nature in the form of resorts or economic pursuits were added to the menu. The angst, as a consequence of globalisation, has institutionalized the task of feeling good and converted it into a formal science. From quasi-religion activities to picnics, retreats, spas and many more, these pursuits are looked upon as effective antidotes emotional pain stress.

Taking time off from your job is not only desirable, but also essential. It allows you to explore other interests, which will make you a well-rounded person. Breaks from work will let you see things with fresh eye, enhancing your creativity and problem solving skills. Career freaks look for a high in a successful project or deadline met… creative pursuits also form a part of the menu… the grater angst, the bigger the menu.

Children rely on instant gratification, which makes them feel happy and excited, whether it is a piece of candy, a new toy car or doll, the focus is on material possessions. As one grows older, there is a quest for seeking a deeper meaning in one’s lives. While a BMW or Rolex watch might still be exciting, there is also a search that begins to ask questions about ourselves and the world. The mind matures and goes beyond the charms of instant gratification and looks more towards meaningful experiences. It is through knowledge and widening our understanding of the world that we find meaning. Books on self-help, spiritually spread light on these subjects.

WHY VACATIONS ARE IMPORTANT

Vacations Promote creativity: A good vacation can help us reconnect with ourselves, operating as a vehicle for self-discovery and helping us get back to feeling our best.

Stave off burnout: Workers who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience burnout, making them more creative and productive than their overworked counterparts.

Help relieve stress and can keep one healthy: Taking regular time off recharges your batteries.

Can strengthen bond: Spending time, enjoying life with your loved ones can keep relationships strong, helping you enjoy the good times, though you are stressed.

The bottom line is that taking a good amount of time away from the stresses of daily life can give us the break we need so that we can return to our lives refreshed and better equipped to handle whatever comes.

1. One has to have a positive mind and realize that one’s thoughts and attitudes create one’s feeling.
2. Regular breakfasts. Nutritious food improves one’s mood, boosts memory and immunity.
3. Regular physical exercise (at least 30 minutes) everyday. Endorphins—feel good hormones--which are released by the brain in response to exercise, improve mood, relieve stress and produce an overall feeling of well being.
4. Exercise the brain by doing crosswords/puzzles, hobbies. Learn problem-solving techniques.
5. Spend time in silence.
6. Make friends, make someone feel good.
7. Learn to recognize and handle stress.
8. Take breaks/holidays.
9. Self-appreciation—reward your achievements.
10. Accept responsibility for your health—be regular with health checkups, modify lifestyle as advised by professionals.
11. Smile—a happy face has a positive effect in forming and maintaining relationships.