First, the economy forced us to take a “staycation.” We were all in our backyards, putting up tents. We were too worried about leaving town, because when we got back we may not have a job. According to Expedia 2009, Americans are vacation deprived. About one third of US adults (34%) do not take the vacation days they receive each year. About 37% report regularly working more than 40 hours per week. Thirty percent of Americans have trouble coping with stress from work at some point during their vacation. What has happened to us? We are reporting more stress, anger, and hostility at work, yet we are so worried that if we get away we could possibly come back to no job.

Couples need a break away to nurture their relationships with each other. Children, too, benefit from a family vacation. Some of the best memories of being a family happen when the whole family is on vacation. School is right around the corner, and we all have a small window for a short, wonderful getaway. If you get anxious thinking about all of the work you have to leave behind, consider a breakation. A breakation is much different than a staycation, because you are going to leave home, and take a shorter, more intense vacation. Still not convinced that you can do it this year? Are you thinking you don't need it or your marriage doesn't deserve it? Consider the following reasons you should and must take a breakation.
Reasons to take a breakation:

1. Vacations promote creativity. When you are away, you have time to think without the pressure of getting work done.
2. Vacations keep us healthy. Your heart rate slows down, your blood pressure goes down, and all of these processes make your heart happier.
3. Vacations help us feel less stressed. Therefore, we express ourselves with less anger, irritability, and hostility. Communication improves when we aren't feeling stressed.
4. Vacations are the one time you can give to yourself while giving to others. It's a treat for everyone and has long lasting effects.
5. Vacations can help cure or postpone job burnout. Many times, absence from your job really can make your heart grow fonder of your job.
6. Vacations promote more connection and negotiation between couples. Sometimes, when you live with someone who is always stressed, you may begin to wonder what made you fall in love with this person. Getting away with them and seeing them relaxed and playful again is a gentle reminder of why you love them.

Breakation ideas:

1. Try a hotel for the weekend or a three day cruise. Yes, it's expensive, but it only lasts two or three nights, and you are worth it.
2. A quick trip to Vegas. It's a cheap flight, with lots of shows and cheap food.
3. Going away for a weekend and renewing your vows. This is one of those things that may help a couple who is in the midst of struggling with their marriage.
4. A private or public nude beach. This is a breakation that works best if Grandma and Grandpa will keep the kids. It is not necessary to tell Grandma and Grandpa what kind of a beach you are visiting.

Where you go is not important. What is important is that you grab your partner and go. You deserve a break, you work hard, and both you and your partner will come back feeling renewed and ready to go back to work.