Clergy Connexion July 2022

Tips for a Less Stressful Family Vacation

Summer has arrived and many are planning on a family vacation. Recreation and amusement are important aspects of sustaining yourself in ministry. This may mean being with extended family in a rented cabin or beach house or hotel room. And while our intentions and expectations are to enjoy time away, vacations can often be stressful as opposed to relaxing. On the “Packed for Life” website, (https://packedforlife.com) there is an article about how to stay sane and have a more enjoyable family holiday.

There are four reasons listed as causing stress on a family vacation:

Money concerns Physical and mental exhaustion Kid-related antics Unmet expectations

Vacations can be expensive. There are more mouths to feed, more plane tickets, more motel rooms, event costs, gas to buy, etc. Secondly, getting to your destination can be exhausting. There is packing, booking travel, getting to the airport and generally being out of your regular routines. Any adversity one might experience is more difficult when you are tired. Third, kids are excited and their energy levels run high. Meltdowns are common. It is challenging to entertain kids during a long ride. Sleep routines may be disrupted. And new experiences may cause anxiety. Finally, you plan what you thought was the perfect getaway. Then your expectations are dashed when the lodging is not what was advertised; Or the weather does not cooperate; Or your family gets in a huge argument.

Here are some tips to keep your sanity during family vacation season.

Set a budget and stick to it. Take naps when exhausted. Prepare children by communicating the kind of behavior you expect. Make a conscious effort to be flexible and control your expectations.

When dealing with extended family drama, take frequent breaks and schedule down time or time away throughout the day. Vacations can be a wonderful time to re-charge and re-create. For more detailed information, visit the website listed above.

Have a blessed summer season.

Reverend Kathy T. Heustess, Director Holston Center for Wellbeing