Vacation days piling up? A whopping 52% of Americans leave vacation days on the table at the end of the year (705 million days to be exact), and that's just plain unhealthy. Those who take all or most of their vacation time to travel report higher rates of happiness with physical health and well-being compared to those who don’t travel as much. They're also more satisfied and productive when they are at work. 

Whether using those days for vacation or staycation, here are our recommendations for a relaxing mental health day in Augusta. Doctor's orders.

Grab a Juice at HumaniTree House 

Start your morning off right with an organic, vegan fresh-pressed juice. Not only are they good for your body, but your heart as well. Everything at Humanitree House is made fresh and with love. ❤️

Hit the River Early for a Peaceful Paddle

Nothing is quite as relaxing as a quiet morning on the Savannah River. Take a deep breath of that fresh morning air, grab your kayak or SUP, and hit the waters to clear your head.

Pal around with your Furry Friend

Pets are nature's ultimate mood-booster. Pets are proven to alleviate stress and anxiety, and lucky for us, there are plenty of pet-friendly places in Augusta. Take your pooch for a stroll along the Augusta Canal, or play fetch at Pendleton King Park.

Snap A Happy Little Reminder

Augusta's public art scene can brighten anyone's spirit! For a pick-me-up, snap a selfie at one of Augusta's happiest murals, located outside of Tire City Potters. That yellow robot is sure to make you smile. 

Picnic in the Park

Grab your bestie and a picnic from one of Augusta's over 300 locally-owned restaurants, and escape to our city oasis. The Augusta Common, Augusta's own Central Park, is the perfect spot to relax amidst the hustle and bustle.

Read a Book at the Riverwalk

Swing by our favorite downtown-based, indie bookstore, The Book Tavern, for a daring adventure or mythological fairytale, readers choice. Then head a few blocks down to the Augusta Riverwalk to get lost in your new book.

Soak Up City Views 

(With a cocktail in hand!) Head to the roof of Augusta's newest downtown hotel for a martini with a view! The Hyatt House Augusta is the ultimate place to catch downtown sights unlike any other.

Need proof for all those time-off requests?

Share the research at Project: Time-Off with your boss!