‘Sunshine Saturday’ Beckons Britons as Psychotherapist Highlights Our Brain’s ‘Need’ for Holidays – and the Optimal Number Annually

04/01/2024

Story from Jam Press (Sunshine Saturday) Pictured: Video grab of Anna Williamson discussing the benefits of holidays and how it helps mental health. Brits gear up for 'Sunshine Saturday' as psychotherapist reveals WHY our brain 'needs' a holiday – and how many to take per year Ahead of Sunshine Saturday (6 January) – traditionally the most popular day of the year to book a getaway – an expert has shared why we don’t just want a holiday, our brain literally “needs it”. TV psychotherapist Anna Williamson has shared how researching holidays and pressing the ‘book now’ button can alter our brain chemistry for the better. The 42-year-old from Hertfordshire also reveals reasons why a weekend break might be better than a longer trip and how many days into a journey our mind and body really start to relax. Anna also answers one key question: how many holidays do we really need per year to feel rested? “I would say we don't just want a holiday... we need it,” said Anna, who worked with TUI on this project. “The minute December festivities are over, many people experience a hormone crash. “Our brain chemistry is altered by this heightened state of joy and so it is craving another oxytocin and dopamine hit – which are our brains' reward, comfort, and love hormones. “That’s why we scramble to book a holiday in January, inspiring the phenomenon known as Sunshine Saturday, to help re-create the buzz.” Studies show that so-called ‘braincations’ trigger the release of neurotransmitters and can boost mood, reduce stress and improve cognitive function. A holiday also improves our ability to think creatively and can have lasting effects on the nervous system, allowing it to better recover from injuries such as strokes and improve heart health. According to TUI’s study, most Brits would have started looking for this year’s holiday on New Year’s Day and around four in 10 (37%) are likely to book a summer holiday around this time of

With Sunshine Saturday (6 January) looming – the day famously known for holiday bookings – an expert sheds light on why our brains don’t just desire, but essentially ‘require’ holidays.

TV psychotherapist Anna Williamson discusses how the process of researching and booking holidays positively affects our brain chemistry.

Anna, 42, from Hertfordshire, also discusses the benefits of a shorter break over a longer holiday and pinpoints when relaxation truly begins during a trip.

She addresses an important question: how many holidays are necessary each year for proper rest?

“I would say we don’t just want a holiday… we need it,” says Anna, who is collaborating with TUI for this project.

“Post-holiday season, many undergo a hormone crash. This is because our brain chemistry, previously uplifted by joy, longs for another oxytocin and dopamine surge – our brain’s reward, comfort, and love hormones. This desire fuels the rush for holiday bookings in January, leading to the Sunshine Saturday trend,” she explains.

‘Studies reveal that ‘braincations’ help release neurotransmitters, improving mood, reducing stress, and enhancing cognitive abilities. A vacation not only enhances creative thinking but also offers long-term benefits to the nervous system, aiding recovery from health issues like strokes and boosting heart health.

According to TUI’s study, most Britons begin their annual holiday search on New Year’s Day, with around 37% likely to book a summer vacation around this period. It typically takes an adult about 53 hours to find their dream holiday.

What, then, is the recommended number of holidays per year? Anna elaborates: “Although there’s no set time required for health, a minimum of two holidays a year seems to be a practical balance for most. Regular short breaks every two months are crucial to avoid anxiety, stress, fatigue, and illness. Other research suggests that frequent shorter breaks are preferable to a single long holiday each year.”

Regarding the type of holiday – a weekend city escape or a longer beach stay – the decision is personal, with several factors to consider.

“Research indicates that people feel most rejuvenated three days into a holiday. However, for those who prefer longer stays, eight days might be the ideal length. But the stress of one big annual holiday can sometimes be counterproductive,” Anna points out.

Planning a trip also has a positive impact on the brain. “The act of browsing holiday deals triggers our brain’s reward system, leading to dopamine production and sensations akin to those experienced during pleasurable activities,” Anna adds.

TUI’s past research shows that Brits hit their ‘peak’ holiday mood 43 hours into a trip, but this feeling fades about 3.7 days after returning. Interestingly, more than 20% book their next holiday within a month of their return.

TUI expects this January’s sales to exceed those of January 2022 and pre-pandemic January 2020.

Holidays are also beneficial for sleep patterns, with the effects lasting up to two weeks post-return. The experiences during the holiday also influence the level of restfulness.

“Engaging in new experiences, such as discovering your hotel room or the first dip in the pool, gives the brain a ‘novelty’ boost. Meditation during a holiday can also prolong the ‘holiday high’,” says Anna.

Anna advises: “Be clear about your holiday objectives, whether for relaxation or exploration. Choosing an appropriate travel partner is key. Strike a balance between enjoyment and exercise, mindful eating, and staying hydrated. Regular walks are essential for vitamin D and maintaining physical health.”

Anna herself prefers frequent breaks to suit her family’s “freelance lifestyle”. “We cherish family holidays and aim for four trips a year. I also organise couples’ retreats and trips with my mum and friends. Holidays are crucial for stepping away from daily stressors and enhancing connection and communication,” she concludes.

After booking a holiday, 65% report feeling ‘excited’, 35% ‘satisfied’, and 34% more cheerful. European beach holidays are a popular choice, with various lengths preferred.

Phillip Iveson, TUI UK & I’s commercial director, comments: “We see a significant increase in holiday bookings after Christmas. With our wide range of deals, we are set to meet diverse travel needs this year.”

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