In addition to being enjoyable, vacations offer a significant benefit: they are an investment in long-term success. By taking time to rest and recharge, you can improve your focus, creativity, and overall productivity.
J.P. Morgan once remarked, “I can do a year’s work in nine months, but not in twelve.” The respite helped him be more efficient and accomplish much more.
Many people have said that taking one day off each week increases your productivity. For the Jewish People this principle is naturally built into our lives, through Shabbos. By taking one day each week to disconnect from work, individuals can experience increased well-being and productivity.
The historical origins of bein hazmanim can be traced back to the 16th century, when students were granted official breaks over Succos and Pesach. While this practice was met with some resistance over the centuries by many roshei yeshivah, it was eventually defended by prominent figures such as the Noda B’Yehudah and the Chazon Ish. They argued that bein hazmanim could provide a valuable opportunity for both the yeshivah faculty and students to rest and rejuvenate. The addition of a summer bein hazmanim break appears to be a more recent development. Prewar Lithuanian yeshivos didn’t have formal summer breaks, but their schedule was more relaxed, allowing individual students to take short breaks during the summer months.
