Many residents of the UAE feel the need for leisure activities or a staycation upon returning from a holiday, particularly after a long summer break. Research from the Journal of Organisational Behaviour suggests that engaging in relaxation activities post-vacation can extend the period of rejuvenation. Short breaks or calming activities shortly after returning home can sustain the psychological and productivity gains from a holiday. Khaleej Times spoke to some residents who noted that while they feel refreshed, they find it challenging to rekindle their work enthusiasm after a break.
'Missing the big family' Natalia Miranda, an American expat in the UAE, shared her experience of post-holiday blues after a lengthy stay in Kerala, India. She distinguishes between a relaxing vacation and a family-oriented one, highlighting the loneliness felt upon returning to an empty house after a family visit. To cope, she connects with friends and family online and plans social activities to ease the transition.
'Dread checking office mail' Natalia also expressed anxiety about potential urgent work issues or negative feedback awaiting her in her office emails. She prefers to check her emails a few days before returning to work to manage any arising concerns.
Rejoining closer to a weekend Shreya Chakraborty, a lawyer, experiences fatigue and insomnia towards the end of her leave. She tries to distract herself by watching movies on her return flight and strategically plans to return to work near a weekend to ease the transition.
Gradually re-enter routine Healthcare professionals, including Dr. Nada Omer from Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, explain that 'vacation fatigue' is common, arising from the stress of travel and social obligations during holidays. They recommend a gradual re-entry into routine and mindful practices to ease the transition back to daily life.
Wellness coaches like Girish Hemnani emphasize the importance of planning vacations that support emotional and mental recovery, suggesting that vacations should enhance, rather than escape from, daily emotional and mental health care.
