(Updated July 17, 2023)

Sometimes we get so caught up in the demands of our personal and work lives that we forget that our bodies and our minds need a regular break.

Vacations help us relax, unwind, and recharge. Taking time off also reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, insomnia, and fatigue. Vacations also make you feel good and happier with life, while protecting against burnout.

Whether we’re able to catch a flight or hit the road, or if we prefer to stay close to home, taking time away from our day-to-day work routines is a valuable component of our overall well-being.

For those of you considering travel, the CDC has an advice for travelers page with information that can help you prepare. Or if staying close to home might be your preferred vacation, the Pacific Northwest provides numerous ways to rest, relax, and explore. Pick a new neighborhood to discover, a new or engaging hobby to pursue, or a beloved vista to visit again. It’s as easy as hopping a Trailhead Direct bus.

Got questions about vacation leave? Talk to your supervisor or department’s Human Resources Manager (employee access only).