Research studies prove that taking a vacation is good for your health; here are some reasons why that's so:

• Taking time off will decrease stress and tension and the maladies they lead to (like hypertension and migraines).
• A change of pace now and then helps fight off symptoms of depression.
• Less downtime can lead to less sleep; this in turn may lead to weight gain.
• More time outside, in fresh air and sunlight (rather than in recirculated air under artificial lights), gives your body Vitamin D to protect bones and lower cancer risk.

Don't believe us? It's a fact: a nine-year study found that middle-aged men who skip their annual vacations are 17% more likely to die (and almost 35% more likely to die of heart disease) than men who do take vacations every year.

And that boost of energy and improved mood you get from time away from the office will increase your work productivity when you get back -- so not only will you stay healthier, but your career may get a boost, too!