It’s no doubt that everyone loves a good vacation – whether that’s a month-long getaway to Europe or a road trip to your favorite National Park. Heck, maybe it’s even a staycation down the street. Whatever your vacation looks like – not only is it relaxing and fun – it’s beneficial for your mental health! Therefore, in this article we’ll be reviewing the 10 reasons why travel is good for mental health. Hopefully, this will inspire you to take some time off work (if possible) and get out and explore the world!
I know traveling doesn’t seem feasible to everyone and that’s because often, it isn’t. We have hectic work schedules and hefty expenses every month. However, maybe after this article you’ll start putting a tiny bit of savings a way every paycheck – so you can lead a happier and fulfilling life. Trust me, once you get that wanderlust itch, there’s no going back. So – let’s look at the 10 reasons why travel is good for mental health!
If you’re thinking of taking a trip soon and need luggage, check out our article on Monos vs Away: Which is Better?
#1. Travel has been linked to stress reduction.
Our society puts a lot of value on work and living that “9-5” life. However, a lot of people struggle with the pressures and expectations of day-to-day life. Many suffer from mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, it’s been found that travel helps you take your mind off stressful situations and focus more on your personal interests.
#2. Travel keeps you happy.
As we discussed above, the stressors of day-to-day life can often become too much to handle. When you take a vacation, you get that opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and create new patterns. This allows your brain to re-wire, which boosts your mood and self-confidence. Do you ever feel trapped at home? Like you’re going to be stuck in this bubble for forever? Travel allows your brain to soak in new experiences, which in turn creates happiness.
#3. Travel inspires your creativity.
Whether you’re immersing yourself in Spanish culture at the Museo Nacional de Antropologia in Mexico City or taking a walk through the redwoods in Northern California, travel inspires creativity. No matter where you are, your brain is taking in new culture, scenery, and in some cases – even new languages. This allows you to think deeper about society and the natural wonders around you. Creativity is one of the reasons why travel is good for your mental health 🙂
#4. Travel can increase productivity at work.
You were feeling a bit burnt out, so you took a week off, went to the California coast and are now back and ready as ever. A Harvard Business Review study of over 400 travelers found that 94% of participants had just as much or more energy after returning to work from vacation. So, go take this information and share it with your boss – you need that vacay pronto!
#5. Travel boosts independence and self-confidence.
Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, travel helps you toughen up both mentally and emotionally. When on vacation, you’re immersing yourself in someone else’s culture – that may consist of a new language, different experiences, or new rituals. It can be hard to navigate the streets of Rome or Paris if you don’t know the language or anyone around you. Therefore, travel helps you build independence and self-confidence!
#6. Travel helps build connections.
Maybe you’re taking a cruise off the coast in Miami or are traveling solo to Spain. Whatever the occasion may be, you’re bound to meet new faces along the way. Some of my best friends and strongest connections in the world have come from my traveling excursions. Typically, we’re entrenched with the same people we see every day – coworkers, family, friends. But when you travel, you’re immersing yourself in a new culture with new faces. Chances are, some of these new faces will become lifelong connections!
#7. Travel may help combat disease.
According to a study done by the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, there may be a correlation between travel and decreased risks of heart disease and depression. This possible finding is HUGE – this alone should make your travel bug start to itch around! Do you see now why travel is good for mental health!?
#8. Travel helps you stay fit which improves mental wellbeing.
Whether you’re swimming in the Adriatic Sea, exploring the cobblestone streets of Mykonos, or hiking in Glacier National Park – travel helps you stay in shape! Studies have found that physical exercise improves your mental health. And the best part about vacation is – most times you don’t even know you’re getting those steps in when you are!
#9. Travel = Self Care.
How often in our day-to-day lives are we doing this 100% for ourselves? Is that deadline you are stressing out over meeting purely for you? Didn’t think so. Travel is something that we can participate in that is self-care. During a vacation, you can do what you love, take time for yourself and your needs, and not have to worry about making other people happy. So, plan that vacation – stop worrying about disappointing people around you! It’s time to focus on yourself for a little bit.
#10. Travel pushes you out of your comfort zone.
As we discussed above, travel is always introducing you to new cultures and things you may not have exposed yourself to before. While it may feel uncomfortable in the moment, it creates experiences that pushes you out of your comfort zone! When you go back to your daily life, chances are you’ll be more flexible and less stressed.
Why Travel is Good for Your Mental Health
What did you think – are you convinced? Let us know in the comments.
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