Traveling has become more appreciated than ever after experiencing a whole year in quarantine. Many of us were stuck inside for long periods of time without being able to take a real break from our daily routine.
Let’s face it, as stressful as traveling can be with all the packing, planning and budgeting, it is so much FUN! Going to a new destination where you can escape from normal work-life brings a common relief we can all relate to.
Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway, or a week-long trip, allowing yourself to disconnect from reality is so important for your mental health. Traveling reminds us what life is truly all about: enjoying the little things and appreciating the present moment in its entirety.
Here are 10 reasons traveling is good for the soul:
1. Ensures a peace of mind.
Traveling forces us to disconnect from all the tension and stress that lingers in our work and home lives. Giving your mind a break is necessary to continue moving forward on a healthy path. Traveling is a great way to calm the mind, become more present and enjoy the little things.
2. Boosts your confidence.
When we travel, we are bound to experience obstacles with unfamiliar territory. Traveling helps us learn how to deal with healthy conflict and find solutions in unique ways we may not have practiced if we were in our normal environments.
3. Enhances your tolerance for uncertainty.
Following #2, things may not always go as planned when we travel. On top of overcoming obstacles, traveling also increases our tolerance for uncertainty. When on vacation, you may find yourself more relaxed when things aren’t right on schedule. You are allowing yourself to embrace uncertainty, and as they say, “just go with the flow.”
4. Expands our worldview.
When traveling, you will often be exposed to new cultures and a way of living that are different from what you know best. Taking the time to understand and get to know them firsthand is crucial for developing a more accurate view and appreciation of the world.
5. Reminds you to have fun with life.
No matter what age, traveling brings joy to all. Breaking free from the norm and letting your inner child run free can be so fulfilling.
6. Aids you to get to know yourself.
When traveling, you may find yourself in new situations you have not experienced before. This allows you to understand what you like, don’t like, and how you choose to react in a new environment.
7. Travel can make you physically healthier.
“According to a study by the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, travel decreases the risks of heart attacks and makes your brain healthier. The study determined that men who take an annual vacation are 30% less likely to die from heart disease, among other findings.” (Goodwall Blog)
8. Travel boosts creativity.
Traveling allows us to see and experience new cultures, people and places. It can help put us in the right mindset to contemplate new ideas and creativity.
9. Meet new people.
If you’re open to it, you will walk away from every travel situation with a handful of connections, the best memories, and maybe some lifelong friends.
10. Life is a wonderful gift.
“And I think to myself, what a wonderful world.” Powerful lyrics by Louis Armstrong have never been more relatable after a wonderful traveling experience. Traveling reminds us that we are in control of our lives and we create our own destiny.
“Travel while you’re young and able. Don’t worry about the money, just make it work. Experience is far more valuable than money will ever be.” – Anonymous
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