The Health Benefits of Taking Vacations

The Transformative Power of Travel

Norm Goldman: Dr. Borins, could you share the origins of your passion for travel and its ongoing appeal?

Dr. Mel Borins: My love for travel was ignited during a childhood road trip to Florida with my parents. The new experiences and constant companionship were delightful. After my medical internship, my wife and I embarked on a 14-month global journey, which was profoundly inspiring. Travel offers a refreshing escape from routine and each trip presents a new adventure.

Crafting "Go Away Just For The Health of It"

Norm Goldman: What inspired you to write your book, and what hurdles did you face in the process?

Dr. Mel Borins: Observing my patients' health transformations post-vacation sparked the idea for the book. I noticed that vacations often alleviated stress-related symptoms, indicating the healing power of taking time off. The main challenge was finding a publisher, but persistence paid off when Eastendbooks showed interest. My unwavering belief in the importance of leisure time kept me going.

The Science Behind Vacation Benefits

Norm Goldman: Why do you believe vacations are so beneficial?

Dr. Mel Borins: Research supports the health benefits of vacations. For instance, a study found that homemakers who vacationed once every six years or less had nearly double the risk of heart attacks compared to those who took multiple vacations annually. Men who vacationed yearly were 21% less likely to die over nine years and 32% less likely to die from coronary heart disease. Vacations also enhance intellectual functioning, life satisfaction, family relationships, and work efficiency.

Romantic Destinations to Consider

Norm Goldman: Can you recommend some romantic vacation spots?

Dr. Mel Borins: Absolutely, I find destinations with sunsets, beaches, and warm climates particularly romantic. Bali, Hawaii, Seychelles, and Moorea in Tahiti are among my top picks for their breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere.

Combating Post-Vacation Blues

Norm Goldman: How do you handle the sadness of a vacation ending?

Dr. Mel Borins: To combat post-vacation blues, I suggest planning enjoyable activities for the week you return, developing vacation photos promptly, connecting with fellow travelers, pacing your work, and dreaming up your next getaway to have something to look forward to.

Staying Healthy While Traveling

Norm Goldman: What tips do you have for avoiding intestinal issues on vacation?

Dr. Mel Borins: In regions with higher infection risks, it's crucial to avoid undercooked foods, tap water, fountain drinks, ice cubes, and unpasteurized dairy. Stick to the rule: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.

Dr. Borins' Writing Inspiration and Medical Practice

Norm Goldman: How do you generate ideas for your travel writing?

Dr. Mel Borins: Travel experiences naturally fuel my writing. The world's diversity and beauty never cease to inspire me, and readers seem to enjoy my articles as much as I enjoy writing them.

Norm Goldman: Could you describe the complementary healing methods you incorporate into your practice?

Dr. Mel Borins: My practice includes acupuncture, spinal manipulation, and a focus on herbs and nutrition. I'm also well-versed in various alternative healing methods, which I discuss with my patients.

What's Next for Dr. Borins?

Norm Goldman: What future projects are you working on?

Dr. Mel Borins: I'm creating a photo book accompanied by my original songs and working on my fifth CD. My goal is to have my music recorded by a band or singer. Additionally, I'm continuing to promote my public speaking engagements on topics like laughter, vacations, stress relief, and complementary medicine.

Norm Goldman: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Dr. Mel Borins: For those interested in my books, photos, CDs, and speaking engagements, please visit my website at melborins.com.

Thank you, Dr. Borins, for sharing your insights on the health benefits of vacations. For readers interested in learning more about "Go Away Just For The Health of It," click here for Norm's review.

Interesting statistics and facts about the health benefits of vacations that are often overlooked include:

• According to the American Psychological Association, over two-thirds of Americans report feeling a post-vacation positive mood that can last for weeks, suggesting a lasting mental health benefit. (APA)
• A study by the University of Vienna found that after taking time off from work, workers had fewer stress-related physical complaints such as headaches, backaches, and heart irregularities, and the effects lasted at least five weeks after returning to work. (University of Vienna)
• The U.S. Travel Association reported that 55% of Americans did not use all their vacation days, leaving 768 million days unused in 2018, which indicates a significant missed opportunity for health benefits. (U.S. Travel Association)