Brits gear up for ‘Sunshine Saturday’ as psychotherapist reveals WHY our brain ‘needs’ a holiday – and how many to take per year

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “That’s why we scramble to book a holiday in January, inspiring the phenomenon known as Sunshine Saturday, to help re-create the buzz.” open image in gallery At least two holidays a year is deemed to be a realistic sweet spot for most Studies show that so-called ‘braincations’ trigger the release of neurotransmitters and can boost mood, reduce stress and improve cognitive function. “Other research suggests that little and often can be a very good solution to keeping rested – as opposed to saving yourself for one trip per year.” As for what type of trip to take – a weekend city break or a two-week-long beach holiday – it’s up to you, but there are some interesting facts to consider. “Though often the pressure of one annual holiday can be counter-productive due to the stress in trying to have enforced fun, which can often overwhelm the whole point of going away.” open image in gallery Research has found that three days into a holiday is when people feel most well-rested, less anxious and in a better mood The joy of holidays and travelling doesn’t just happen on the trip itself – even just planning a journey affects the brain. “It’s all-consuming.” Previous research by TUI reveals that Brits get into a ‘peak’ holiday feeling 43 hours into a trip and the average person loses this sensation around 3.7 days after unpacking their bags.