The psychology of holidays and why we need to get away
Dr Hamed al SinawiPublished: 9:40 PM, Aug 01, 2026
Sometimes, stepping away from our ordinary lives allows us to return with clearer minds, stronger relationships, and a renewed appreciation for the life awaiting us back home
I recently travelled to Europe with my family for a summer holiday. Since it was my first driving trip abroad, I decided to go through a travel agent who arranged not only the flights and accommodation, but also a detailed daily itinerary of major attractions, exact locations, and even places where halal food could be found. The countryside was breathtaking, green valleys, mountain roads, and small villages that seemed untouched by time. More importantly, the journey provided something many of us silently crave after a long year of work and a chance to step away from routine.
Holidays occupy a special place in human psychology. Research consistently shows that taking regular vacations is associated with lower stress levels, better mood, improved sleep, and even reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Yet the greatest psychological benefit of a holiday may not come from the trip itself, but from temporarily escaping the demands of everyday life
Modern life often traps us in repetitive cycles of work, responsibilities, and digital distractions. Over time, this can lead to what psychologists call “hedonic adaptation”, the tendency to become accustomed to our surroundings and routines, causing life to feel less rewarding. A holiday disrupts this cycle. New places, unfamiliar experiences, and exposure to nature stimulate the brain, creating fresh memories and renewing our sense of wonder
Interestingly, psychological studies suggest that anticipation itself is a majorgives people something positive to look forward to, boosting well-being even before the journey begins. In many ways, the vacation starts long before boarding the plane
Good planning can also reduce stress and save money. Booking flights and accommodation early often results in better deals and greater choice. Before travelling, it is wise to check visa requirements well in advance, as unexpected paperwork can quickly turn excitement into anxiety. Looking up the expected weather helps you pack appropriately for summer heat, mountain rain, or cooler evenings
Some travellers want to visit all places suggested by their Instagram reels which leads them to return from holidays more exhausted than when they left. The key is intentional planning. A good holiday should balance activity with rest. Packing too many attractions into a single day can transform leisure into another form of work. Leave room for spontaneity like an unplanned walk through a village, sitting quietly by a lake, or sharing a meal with loved ones may become the most memorable moments of the trip.
It is also worth reflecting on what we truly seek from a holiday. Is it adventure, family connection, spiritual renewal, or simply rest? Different people need different forms of recovery. The ideal holiday is not necessarily the most expensive one, but the one that matches our psychological needs
In my opinion, we should view holidays not as luxuries, but as investments in our mental well-being . Sometimes, stepping away from our ordinary lives allows us to return with clearer minds, stronger relationships, and a renewed appreciation for the life awaiting us back home
Dr Hamed al Sinawi
The writer is a senior consultant psychiatrist, SQU Hospital
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