For many Brits, the long-awaited holiday often comes with an unexpected companion - crippling anxiety that prevents them from truly switching off. Clinical hypnotherapist Grace Owen, who specialises in treating travel-related stress, shares her professional insights on overcoming this modern malaise.
The Holiday Paradox: Why We Can't Switch Off
"It's heartbreaking to see clients who've saved all year for a break, only to spend it consumed by worries," Owen explains. "The transition from high-pressure work environments to relaxation doesn't happen automatically for many people."
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent thoughts about work emails
- Guilt about taking time off
- Physical tension despite being in paradise
- Inability to sleep through the night
Three Scientifically-Backed Techniques
Owen recommends these evidence-based methods to retrain your brain for relaxation:
- The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Method: Engage all five senses to anchor yourself in the present moment.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Systematically release tension from head to toe.
- Guided Visualisation: Use mental imagery to create your personal calm space.
The Power of Pre-Holiday Preparation
"Just as you pack your suitcase, you need to pack your mental toolkit," advises Owen. She suggests beginning relaxation practices 2-3 weeks before departure to establish neural pathways that make switching off easier when you arrive.
For chronic cases, Owen offers specialised hypnotherapy sessions that help clients develop what she calls "a relaxation reflex" - the ability to decompress on demand.
