'Fear, anxiety and neurosis: that's just in the suitcase when you're an actor.' – Laura Linney

Often when I'm on holiday I try to force myself to relax. I know that sounds silly, but I'm so determined to go home rested that I get anxious about whether we're doing too much; am I being present the whole time so that I'm experiencing it all; am I getting the most recuperation value out of this time off? (This is more proof that I'm neurotic and think too much. Maybe I should become an actor.)

I don't know what's changed, but on this holiday, so far, I've been able to do what I feel like doing, when I feel like doing it: lie on the beach reading or watching the wildlife, swim, nap in the hotel room, have a drink before dinner. Only once have the anxious thoughts tried to invade. Am I taking everything in? Look how wonderful it all is! I turned these fretful mind-ninjas back early in their advance by taking a deep breath and gently reminding myself that I'm present so it's all good.