3 ways reading can help you relax on your active holiday

Active holidays are refreshing and energising. Whether you're tackling adventure sports or exploring new places with your family, the fresh air and physical activity leave you feeling alive.

But the very excitement that makes these trips memorable can also make it hard to switch off. After days filled with adrenaline and movement, relaxing doesn’t always come naturally.

That’s where reading becomes invaluable. A good book offers a calm counterbalance to the activity, helping you create the calm you need to make the most of the quieter moments between adventures.

1.Helping you wind down after adrenaline-inducing activities

The physical rush of an active day can feel fantastic, but it's easy to find yourself wired rather than relaxed in the evening. Reading offers a simple way to ease your body and mind back into a calmer state. According to a 2009 study by the University of Sussex, reading for just 6 minutes a day can reduce stress by more than two-thirds. 

So, when your day winds down and the energy from your activities starts to fade, picking up a book can be the perfect way to help you fully unwind.

2. Providing an immersive activity to enjoy in any setting

Reading offers a versatile way to relax, no matter where your holiday takes you. Whether you’re going on a family beach holiday or enjoying a stay at an active retreat, a book slips easily into any moment of your day.

Picture the scene: waves murmuring in the background and your family splashing in the water. You settle into a chair and open a gripping novel, feeling yourself sink even deeper into the experience. It’s a simple way to escape that engages your mind while beautifully complementing the pace of an active holiday.

3. Improving sleep quality by eliminating blue light before bed

In addition to offering a moment of peace, reading can improve your sleep, especially when used as an alternative to screen time. A recent Norwegian study found that using screens in bed was linked to poorer sleep quality. In fact, each additional hour of screen time before bed correlated with a 24-minute reduction in sleep. 

When you're on an active holiday, good rest is essential to keeping up with all the exciting activities. Switching from your phone or tablet to a book before bed can help you avoid the blue light that interferes with your sleep cycle, allowing you to rest more deeply and feel more refreshed for the next day.

Final thoughts…

Active getaways are best when they’re balanced with relaxation. Incorporating reading into your holiday routine can enhance your experience, providing both mental and physical relaxation when you need it most. 

So, the next time you embark on an active getaway, don’t forget to pack your favourite book – it’s the perfect companion for relaxation between all the adventures.