noun
diversion; change of pace; recreation
Refers to taking a break from routine to refresh one's mind or mood. Often used in contexts of mental relaxation or a pleasant distraction.
仕事の合間に気保養として散歩をする。
I take a walk as a change of pace during work.
たまには気保養に旅行でもどうですか。
How about a trip for a change of pace once in a while?
息抜き emphasizes taking a short break from work or pressure, like a breather. 気保養 focuses more on mental refreshment and change of mood.
Compound of 気 (ki, 'spirit, mind') and 保養 (hoyō, 'preservation of health, recuperation'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word conveys the idea of nurturing one's mental well-being.