How to Relax on a Short Getaway

Short paid vacations are sometimes the only way to balance family life and work deadlines. Life often only allows time for a short getaway, lasting 3 days or less, but if done right, that's plenty of time for you to maximize your chill factor and return refreshed!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Prepare! Before heading out, make sure you have tied up all of your loose ends at work and home: Kids have sitters, work is delegated and bills are paid. Nothing is worse than sitting on a beach and wondering if problem X is handled.
2. To really relax, pick a relaxing destination! It doesn't have to be a remote island: small resort towns, urban spa retreats and placid forests all make ideal venues for serious unplugging.
3. Unplug. Now that you've found the place to unplug you must do so—literally. Make sure your email vacation responder is on and your cell phone is off. Time is of the essence!
4. Plan a relaxing activity to usher you into the right frame of mind. Most people cannot relax on demand, but an 80-minute hot stone massage will usually do the trick!
5. Pick things to relax and renew your senses. It's okay to stay occupied, but think yoga, spa time, naps, great food and reading. Save video games, nightclubs and motocross for another time!