Let’s set the scene. It’s Friday afternoon, you’re sitting at your desk at the office, and it feels like the clock hasn’t ticked in ages. You have to have that report finished by the end of the day, but there’s just no way you can muster the motivation. Sound familiar?

It happens to us all! Hopefully you like your job, but even if you do, we all get tired of working at some point. So how do you remedy that? Luckily, Cascade Outdoors has just the solution for you: plan a weekend outdoor getaway!

First and foremost, taking a vacation is actually good for you, despite what corporate culture leads us to believe. Fun and relaxation aside, there are a couple other benefits for your health as well. Dr. Shannon Torberg, PsyD, LP lists a whopping seven reasons why taking a day off is good for your brain and your ticker. Not only can taking time off lower your blood pressure and reduce anxiety, but according to Dr. Torberg, it can improve your overall well-being, boost your brain power, make you more creative, and keep you from getting so burnt out. Vacations are a great way to spend time with friends and family—even the planning is a mood booster! There’s really nowhere to go wrong.

Now you’re convinced that you need a vacation. We can see that smile creeping across your face! But you need to know what to do on your rapidly approaching vacation. Before you start checking out flights to Paris, think about what you’ve got in your backyard (not your actual backyard… it’s a figure of speech. You’re still awake, right?). If we had to make one recommendation when it comes to deciding what to do on a vacation, it would definitely be to get outside. Being outdoors has so many benefits, some of which are even scientifically proven. Oh nature, we love thee and all you offer; shall we count the ways?

1. You take a break from your various screens. In our experience, trees don’t work too well as cell service towers, so connections to the outside world are pretty limited. Take your eyes off your screen for a day (trust us, your neck will thank you) and just enjoy.
2. You get some exercise and breathe some fresh air. Exercise isn’t just plodding along on the treadmill at the gym! Getting outside for a hike or even a float down the river takes more energy than you think, and it’s way more fun, too. Trade that city air for pure, fresh oxygen — it’s sure to have you thinking easier and feeling happier.
3. You leave your comfort zone. Having a vacation outside probably includes things that you haven’t tried yet. Go for a ziplining adventure or raft down the Ocoee River! It’s all about pushing your limits and enjoying new experiences.
4. You sleep better. This is where the science comes in. According to a 2006 study, people that took an active vacation were able to sleep better afterwards (that is, they slept longer and woke up well-rested). And who doesn’t want to feel more rested?

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your outdoor vacation today! And if you’re in Atlanta, GA or Nashville, TN, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Cascade Outdoors. We’ll show you a great time!