British consumers are finding that shorter breaks are a better way to cut stress and recharge their batteries than longer holidays, according to research by discount hotels specialist laterooms.com.
The survey, commissioned to mark National Stress Awareness Day today, found that over half of those quizzed believed that longer holidays may actually prove to be more stressful once returning to work, feeling harrassed and under pressure after two weeks or more away from their desks, with 66% of people preferring to keep job pressures at bay with regular getaways for just a few days instead.
The research revealed that 86% of us are now taking short breaks on a regular basis throughout the year, with a getaway every three months named by two thirds of people (66%) as being necessary for de-stressing. Over 80% of respondents said that a short break with family or friends would relax them more than regular massages or luxury spa treatments, and 77% of people said they were aware of their stress levels on a day to day basis and look to frequent getaways as a way of managing them.
Psychologist Corinne Sweet said: “"Regular short breaks can act as a vital valve to release everyday stress especially when times are tough. Sometimes a longer break can actually increase stress given the amount of planning and organisation they involve. Short breaks certainly endorse the old saying that "a change is as good as a rest".
