Time to Escape — Prio Yourself with These 4 Self-Care Vacay Ideas This Summer

Burnout is real. If you're feeling overwhelmed or overworked, you need to prioritize yourself this summer, and that calls for a vacay. But don’t just go on any old vacation—schedule a self-care vacay.

There’s something to boost your spirits, from yoga retreats to digital detoxes. Shake off the stress with these self-cafe vacay ideas.

1. Yoga Retreat

Tackle mind and body at once for the whole self-care package deal! By attending a yoga retreat, you can refresh and restore a sense of calm and tone up your hot bod at the same time.

Yoga retreats are in serene destinations all over the globe, so you can find the perfect health-focused getaway, no matter your location or budget. You'll have the opportunity to meet other like-minded folks on their unique wellness journeys and share a one-of-a-kind zen experience. Plus, yoga retreats often serve delicious plant-based meals that will have your Insta fam drooling.

2. Animal Therapy

Cat-cow and downward dog aren't your thing? No worries! How about plain old cats, cows, and dogs? You can benefit from the comfort of four-legged or feathered companions on an animal-centric vacay!

Studies have proven time and time again that animal-human interaction is good for mental health. And while not commonly thought of, there are dozens of ways to weave animal therapy into your get-away.

Search for local petting zoos and farms along your route to add a little animal-loving into the mix. If you have your own beloved comfort pet, look for pet-friendly accommodations, like AirBnbs or campsites so that you can bring your best pal along for the ride.

Want to go all-in? No problem. There are even animal therapy retreats wherein you can live surrounded by the daily comforts of creature companions (and snap a few cute pics while you're at it)!

3. Catch Some Waves (or Zzzs) on the Beach

OK, suggesting the beach may be too obvious… but also, don't forget about the beach! Almost nothing beats burying your toes in the sand and listening to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. The ocean is the ideal place to destress.

Bring along your favorite book and most oversized floppy hat, and prepare to lounge and nap the time away under the sun. By the end of the day, you'll be basking in that sun-kissed, blissful exhaustion that only a day at the beach provides. Don't forget to pack sunscreen!

4. Digital Detox

It can be scary to put your phone down and unplug for a long time. But sometimes, a digital detox is exactly what the doctor ordered!

We're so used to being glued to our devices all the time that it's easy to forget how freeing it can be to disconnect. Make it easy for yourself by taking a hike up a mountain that doesn't get good cell reception.

If you’re not one for going into the wild, ask a friend to (temporarily) change your passwords so that you can’t get into your go-to doom-scrolling apps. You don't even need to leave your house to get a proper digital detox and feel the utter bliss of unplugging.

Because You Deserve It

Self-care is essential, but it's not always easy. Let these vacay ideas inspire you as you prioritize self-care this summer!