What Makes a Holiday Emotionally Nourishing?

In this first holiday-themed blog, I reflect on what we need from time off or time away to help us return to everyday life feeling physically and emotionally nourished.

I’ve had holidays where, on my return, I’ve told family and friends, “I’ve come back for a rest!” That wasn’t what I’d hoped for - but I also wasn’t sure what needed to change.

As a parent or carer, responsibilities don’t stop when we go on holiday. But attuning to our own needs - and being mindful of who we surround ourselves with - can make a big difference.

A metaphor I often use in counselling is that, like batteries, we need to be recharged. We all have a limited pool of physical and psychological resources. Holidays can offer time to top up these reserves - so we don’t run low and end up depleted, exhausted or stressed.

If you're based in West London and looking for counselling support to help you prevent burnout or restore emotional balance, read on for some ideas to help you approach holidays more consciously.

Do You Return from Holidays Feeling Rested?

As schools break up for the summer and many of us begin planning time off - whether it’s staying at home or heading abroad - it’s worth reflecting on how we want that time to feel.

Often, our hopes for holidays are shaped by what we see on social media or ideas about what a “good” holiday should be. But do you take time to think about what you personally need to feel restored?

What Does Your Nervous System Need?

Clients who experience anxiety or chronic stress often say they’ve forgotten what a holiday is meant to feel like. Holidays become another place where expectations run high, rest gets squeezed out, and emotional needs go unmet.

So how can you help your nervous system settle and recharge? Here are some therapist-informed suggestions:

How to Support Your Nervous System on Holiday

• Ease into it: Take the first day or two to slow down and decompress.

• Physically slow your pace: Move through your morning more mindfully and resist the urge to rush.

• Reduce tech use: Set boundaries around checking devices, even if you can’t switch off completely.

• Don’t do it all: Rather than cramming your schedule, focus on one or two meaningful activities each day.

• Get into green and blue spaces: Natural settings - parks, woods, rivers or coastlines - can soothe and regulate your nervous system.

The Role of Predictability in Restoring Wellbeing

While holidays are often seen as a break from routine, many people find that what’s most nourishing isn’t the absence of structure - it’s the presence of gentle, predictable rhythms.

On a recent yoga retreat, I noticed how calming it was to know when meals would be served, when sessions began, and that quiet time was respected. This reliability gave my nervous system permission to settle.

Predictability reduces decision fatigue and helps us feel safe - especially if we’re carrying emotional stress. It’s not about rigid schedules, but creating a rhythm that feels steady and supportive.

The Importance of Autonomy and Attunement

Nourishment looks different for everyone. What energises one person might feel draining to someone else.

Spending time with close friends or family can be fulfilling - but it also requires careful navigation. I’ve noticed how easy it is to unconsciously adjust to someone else’s pace or preferences, especially when we’re trying to keep harmony.

True rest often needs autonomy - the freedom to follow your own rhythm. Being attuned to yourself while remaining compassionate toward others is key. This might mean:

• Taking alone time

• Gently setting boundaries

• Agreeing flexible plans in advance

When you honour both your needs and your relationships, it’s more likely that you’ll return from time away feeling restored rather than depleted.

Want to Feel More Rested After Time Off?

If you’ve ever returned from a break feeling more tired than when you left, or you’re struggling to prioritise your emotional needs, counselling may help.

As a therapist offering counselling in Ealing and online, I support clients with anxiety, burnout, people-pleasing, and emotional overwhelm. Therapy can help you recognise what restores you and build confidence in meeting those needs - whether on holiday or in everyday life.

Get in touch to book a free 15-minute introductory call.

Vibrant wildflowers frame a serene coastal landscape, offering a tranquil escape with calming blue waters and expansive skies.