Let’s face it, life has its share of stressful moments. You’ve probably said more than once, “I need a vacation.” I know I have certainly said it. So why is it that when we are stressed, we dream about getting away? Are people that travel more often happier and less likely to feel stuck or depressed? Are there really that many benefits to traveling that it can cure our worries and make us feel better?
It might not surprise you that the answer is absolutely "yes," but you might not know about the specific and scientifically studied mental health benefits of traveling.
Traveling strengthens relationships. When you travel together, you have the chance to bond over shared experiences and create meaningful memories to cherish for years to come.
A day at the beach has been proven to help relieve stress. The gentle, repetitive sound of waves is meditative for our brains and the sunlight actually triggers the production of vitamin D, which is good for our immune systems.
Spending time outdoors, whether it's hiking, resting by a lake, or watching the clouds go by, can help with memory function and focus while also increasing creativity.
The change of scenery we get from traveling has been shown to reignite our passions and help us recognize the things we’re grateful for and find the most joy in.
We get a sense of achievement from having gone somewhere new and engaging with cultures and experiences that are different from those at home. This accomplishment can raise our self-esteem and motivation to conquer future situations and challenges.
To sum it up, vacations are one of the best ways to relieve the stress of daily life. It allows us to escape, reconnect, and slow down. So the next time you hear yourself say “I need a vacation,” remember, that it might be exactly what you really do need.
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