Paradise Syndrome: Why do we get sick just before the holidays?

You've been waiting for this moment for months: the holidays are finally here! You've carefully prepared everything, your suitcase is packed, and the excitement is at its peak... But then, a few days before departure, your body says stop: headaches, intense fatigue, a cold, or even digestive problems. This is what we call Paradise Syndrome!

What is Paradise Syndrome?

Paradise Syndrome, or in other words, the famous holiday sickness, is that strange phenomenon where you get sick just before going on vacation. Basically, your body is telling you "no, no, not now" and takes revenge after weeks of pressure. It is actually a physiological and psychological reaction that occurs when the stress accumulated during the work period is suddenly released.

Why do we get sick before the holidays?

Vacation is coming, relaxation seems within reach, but strangely, that's when you feel tired, groggy, or even worse, a cold. So why does this happen to you right before you leave?

1. Stress lets go (and you with it)

For weeks, you live life to the fullest, always under pressure: projects to finish, daily life to manage. And then, bam! The holidays arrive. You say to yourself: “Ah, finally a little respite!” But your body, which has held up well under intense stress, suddenly relaxes. The fall in cortisol (the stress hormone) can cause sudden fatigue, even flu-like symptoms. This is when the body gives you a little " call to order" .

2. The immune system on pause

During the entire period of stress, your immune system is in survival mode. But as soon as the stress drops, he takes the opportunity to take a little break... and that's when the germs take advantage to attack! A slight cold, a bout of fatigue... You're sick just before leaving. Great.

3. Post-preparation fatigue

The stress before leaving is real: running around to finish work, packing, organizing your departure. The result? accumulated fatigue that catches up with you once the tension has subsided. And then you find yourself sweating on a plane, wondering why you didn't pay more attention to your body before you left.

4. Abrupt change of routine

New schedules, jet lag... In short, it's a real upheaval for your body. Your body has to manage this new rhythm, and sometimes it doesn't take it too well. The result: fatigue, stomach aches, and other minor issues.

How to avoid getting sick before the holidays?

Rather than undergo the holiday sickness, here are some tips to help you prepare calmly and make the most of your well-deserved break.

1. Start relaxing before

Why wait for vacation to relax? Relax little by little before you leave. A few minutes of deep breathing, a little bit of meditation…These small steps will allow you to start releasing the pressure, a little before the big day.

2. Boost your immune system

Before you leave, make sure you sleep well and take vitamins if needed. A few supplements to give your natural defenses a little boost, and you're ready to face the holidays without any surprise illnesses!

3. Prepare in advance (without running around)

We all know that last-minute stress, where we're rushing around trying to get things done before leaving. To avoid this chaos, finish your tasks a few days before departure. That way, you'll be able to leave. light-hearted, without that final stretch feeling.

4. Slow down before letting go

Don't pass by zero to one hundred overnight. Take the last few days before your departure to lighten your schedule and give your body a chance to adjust slowly. This will prevent the dreaded energy crash once you're on the beach.

5. Move a little before you leave

Doing some light exercise before you leave can help let go of stress and strengthen your immune system. Nothing crazy: a short yoga session or a walk is enough to prepare your body for the big relaxation. And of course, hydrate yourself well, that's also essential!

No question of getting sick just before the holidays!

By taking care of yourself, your body and your mind, you increase your chances of going on in good shape, ready to enjoy every moment.

If you start relaxing before you leave, you'll already be in vacation mode... before you even arrive!