In Europe, it’s a sin to work during the entire month of August.
That’s right, the continent practically shuts down as people indulge in a well-deserved break, soaking in the summer sun, and relishing the slower pace of life.
This summer, I had the privilege of immersing myself in this European tradition, embarking on an unforgettable adventure through Italy, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia. It was a journey that not only allowed me to celebrate the growth of my family, but also provided a profound opportunity to reconnect with myself and reevaluate the concept of taking a break.
As I roamed through charming villages, hiked along breathtaking coastlines, and revealed myself in the company of my husband and three children, I couldn’t help but notice the stark differences between European and American lifestyles. In Europe, they take their breaks seriously.
There’s no such thing as “free water” – you must pay to use public restrooms, and lunch is considered the most important meal of the day, with many shops closing for a two-hour siesta. Centralized air conditioning is a luxury, and gelato is a delectable treat available at any time of day. These unique customs serve as a reminder that taking a break is an art that Europeans have mastered.
As a mother, wife, professor, and the CEO, HR, and social media manager of Naz Counseling, my life back in the USA is a whirlwind of responsibilities. I rarely find myself unoccupied, and the constant need to be productive often leaves me feeling overwhelmed.
Even on vacation, I’m tempted to stay connected to the world and its demands, blurring the lines between work and leisure. However, during my European adventure, I began to recognize a growing sense of detachment, not from my physical surroundings, but from myself.
Despite being thousands of miles away from my everyday life, work continued to occupy my thoughts. It dawned on me that every vacation presents a choice: do you want to remain tethered to the obligations of the world, or do you want to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the present moment?
This year, what struck me most was the realization that, as much as I love traveling and exploring new places, what I truly need is a break to fast, to empty and recharge. My life had become a vessel filled to the brim with people, stories, problems, and my own concerns, leaving little room for introspection and personal growth. I needed to clear the clutter and create space within myself to recharge my mental and emotional batteries.
Taking a break doesn’t always mean jetting off to far-flung destinations; it can manifest differently with each passing season of life. So, I pose this question to you: What does taking a break mean to you right now?
Is it about embarking on an adventure, reconnecting with yourself, or simply finding solace in the stillness of life? Whatever it may be, remember that the art of taking a break is a crucial aspect of self-care and well-being, something that we all deserve, no matter where we are in the world.
