Labor Day’s Three Day Weekend

We all look forward to three-day weekends, especially on holidays like labor day where we’re able to spend time with family and friends while enjoying something off the grill. However, not only is taking a day off work fun, but it’s also extremely healthy! How does taking time off work help with stress, heart health, and high blood pressure? Also, how much time should I be taking off of work in order to STAY stress-free?

How Working Too Much Affects Heart Health

Full-time workers on average work over 40 hours a week – ranging from 40.5 to 55 hours. Along with other projects, families to take care of, and chores, it becomes extremely difficult to get sufficient sleep. With all these different factors having an effect on our lives, things like stress and high blood pressure can have a damaging effect on our daily lives. In fact, The World Health Organization quotes:

“The study concludes that working 55 or more hours per week is associated with an estimated 35% higher risk of a stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from ischemic heart disease, compared to working 35-40 hours a week.”

Presenteeism

Because people work so many hours they are easy victims to “presenteeism” which affects workers not being able to work at full capacity because of extended hours. Whether it’s a seasonal cold or chronic illness, employees continue to show up sick to work from poor maintenance on themselves.

 

Reduce Stress & Heart Problems

Taking time off work, whether it’s a holiday or personal time off, can decrease stress and physical health problems by a large margin. While sleeping in on the weekend can have a good effect on our health, having a good sleep schedule is the most important. According to the sleep foundation, It is unclear if sleeping in and taking naps can effectively pay back sleep debt.

So How Many Hours is Too Much?

At the bare minimum, you should be working a number of hours that lets you accomplish daily tasks while also having a full night’s rest. When it comes to stress, having those three-day weekends become even more important. Stress can easily build up over time and taking a break from work can reduce fatigue. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend knowing that having fun is good for your heart & health!