Why Travel is Good for the Soul
By Grace McGowan
Traveling is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things to do in life. Who doesn’t love a relaxing beach vacation? Traveling encompasses more than a vacation, however. It has the potential to be so much more than a chance to sit by the pool and unwind, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive, exclusive experience. Going on trips where you have the chance to immerse yourself in new cultures, practice self-reflection, and challenge yourself can be incredibly healthy. Everyone should take the time to expand their worldview and reflect objectively on their own culture and life. Here are some of the top reasons why travel is good for your soul:
1. Traveling can boost your mental health
When you travel, you are free from the stress of your everyday responsibilities. You have many opportunities to be social and meet new people, which can help re-energize your brain. You are also likely to be more physically active when you explore new places, and exercise is linked to improving your mental health. Furthermore, having peaceful moments during your travels can teach you how to bring small moments of self-care to your everyday life. If you take the time to go on walks or drink a cup of coffee every morning while you are traveling, and if these activities improve your overall mood or mental health, you should consider making them a part of your daily routine.
2. You build emotional maturity and resilience
If you travel enough, you are bound to run into unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, canceled flights, or even theft of your personal belongings. Being able to take care of yourself in unstable situations is a skill, as is the ability to be patient and flexible. Encountering unexpected problems in an unfamiliar setting and being able to deal with them will make you feel more confident in yourself, and you can take that newfound poise back to your regular life.
3. Travel opens your mind to new cultures
Even something as simple as trying new food is a chance to learn something new about a previously unfamiliar culture. Learning to appreciate other countries’ customs and cultures is an important part of being a thoughtful and responsible human being. Take the time during your travels to go to museums, learn about history, or find a guided tour (I recommend Sandemans). Traveling also teaches you that things you thought were universal human experiences are actually particular to your own background. It is, of course, important to not have a polarizing attitude (meaning don’t just focus on the things that are “missing”) and remember that differences cannot be judged on a qualitative scale. Different is not better or worse, and learning about new cultures is always an opportunity to enrich your understanding of how the world works.
4. You learn to live in the moment
Work, school, and our busy schedules can keep us from pursuing the things in life that we find interesting. There is no pressure when you are traveling - be calm, do what you love, and be in the moment. Removing yourself from your daily routine is an opportunity to live in a present and authentic way. This also allows you to reflect on what is important in your life. If travel removes you from certain aspects of your life that cause negativity or stress, you can consider modifying them or removing them once you return home. Being present in the moment allows you to feel better connected to the memories you are making. And remember to put away your phone every once and a while!
