Each May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, aiming to remove the stigma of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, burnout, and imposter syndrome. This observance isn’t just about raising awareness but also about exploring practices that enhance our mental well-being.
In this article, we’ll explore the positive effects of traveling and how vacationing can improve our well-being.
Take a refreshing break
Taking a vacation is essential for alleviating stress. Incorporating a digital detox (we know it’s not for the faint-hearted) can further enhance this recharging period and ensure uninterrupted relaxation. Vacations also provide ample time for engaging in physical activities, which not only boost energy and vitality but also enhance mental fitness.
Activities need not be strenuous either; gentle forest walks, morning yoga, or leisurely swims can significantly uplift one’s mood. Engaging in physical exercise releases endorphins, acting as natural mood enhancers and contributing to a more enjoyable experience.
The novelist Virginia Woolf took regular getaways from London to Asheham House in Sussex, England, which were crucial for her mental health and creativity. The secluded environment offered a stark contrast to her life in London, providing a peaceful setting where Woolf could write without the interruptions and pressures of urban life. These regular retreats were the cornerstone of her creative process, underscoring the restorative power of getting away in order to foster creativity and well-being.
How travel enhances mental health
Traveling is a great opportunity to break out of your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s through the currently popular solo travel trend, going with a small group, or checking off a bucket list destination, there are plenty of opportunities that encourage us to break out of our usual patterns.
Each journey calls forth different traits within us—courage, the ability to let go, and the desire to discover. We always get to know new sides of ourselves when we travel. If we overcome a challenge while traveling, this very often leads to us feeling stronger and more resilient, increasing our self-esteem. Experiencing small and large successes strengthens us mentally, which can make us feel more self-confident.
This point might best be highlighted by the story of Elizabeth Gilbert, who traveled to Italy, India, and Indonesia as a means of coping with a divorce, which brought on an exceptionally tumultuous period in her life. Finding pleasure in Italy, spirituality in India, and love and balance in Indonesia, she parlayed her experience into the best-selling book, Eat, Pray, Love, and eventually into a feature film of the same name.
Taking care of your mental health
Here are some simple and practical tips that you can utilize both at home and also while on your adventures.
Daily mindfulness:
Start or end your day with just five minutes of mindfulness or meditation. It can help ground you and manage stress. There are plenty of apps that can guide you through quick and effective sessions.
Regular exercise:
Keep active with something you enjoy, whether it’s dancing along to YouTube videos with the kids, going for a brisk walk, or joining a local sports team. Exercise isn’t just great for the body; it’s a boost for your mental health, too!
Journaling:
Sometimes, your thoughts and memories need a safe space to live. Spend a few minutes each day jotting down what you’re grateful for or recalling some travel memories that made you smile. It’s a great way to relive those happy little moments and keep your spirits lifted.
Staying connected:
Reach out to friends or family regularly. A quick chat, video call, or even checking in via text can do wonders for your mood and keep you feeling connected, especially on days when you’re apart.
Healthy eating:
Try to incorporate foods that boost brain health, like nuts, berries, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Sometimes, it’s hard to keep a healthy diet while traveling, but if you’re heading to the Mediterranean or coastal regions, seafood and fish are found in abundance. If you’re in the tropics, go for fresh fruits. Remember, local, non-processed foods are always the healthiest option for your body. Treat your body like your best buddy—give it good fuel!
Planning and anticipating:
Planning your next adventure can be almost as exhilarating as the trip itself. Start sketching out your next travel plans or a local day trip. Having something to look forward to can boost your mood and give you something exciting to work towards.
Incorporating travel into your life isn’t just about taking breaks; it’s about making significant strides in your mental health and overall happiness. Think of your mental health as a friend you need to take care of and go on an adventure together! Ready to pack your bags?
