Whether you’re always busy with business, constantly on the go managing the family or otherwise, the hectic nature of life can put a huge strain on your mental wellbeing. While we all strive for the perfect balance of work, social and family commitments, it can be difficult to do it all and still take care of ourselves. That’s why it’s so important to make time to look after your mind and body with regular self-care.
One great way to relax, rest and recharge is to travel. In fact, there are many mental health benefits of travelling that make it a great option if you want to escape the daily grind and boost your wellbeing. Here, we explore how travelling can help with mental health.
Travelling can push you out of your comfort zone, particularly if you’re in a place you’ve never been before, experiencing a new culture, or visiting a country where you don’t speak the language. You may need to navigate tricky situations, which may seem stressful at the time, but will give you a great sense of accomplishment once you’ve successfully overcome them. These types of experiences can build your confidence – showing that you can handle more than you may have realised. This confidence boost may help you succeed in many aspects of your life, from hitting work objectives to achieving personal goals.
One of the great mental health benefits of travelling is that it can help to relieve stress and anxiety. A blog on Mind’s website explores the story of Claire and Laura – founders of Twins That Travel, who struggle with anxiety and depression. They say that “travelling provides us with context and perspective” and it’s “been our antidote to anxiety and improved mental health”. For many people, travelling offers a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life, as we can enjoy experiencing new things and seeing new places.
Travelling gives you the opportunity to do things you really enjoy that you may not typically have time for. Whether that’s swimming in the sea, hiking through forests, exploring a European city or simply relaxing in the sun with a great book. Taking time out of your busy schedule to do things that make you happy will inevitably boost your mood, making you feel content and giving you a real sense of satisfaction.
Another example of how travelling can help with mental health is that it often encourages you to do physical exercise. From exploring a vibrant city on foot, discovering breathtaking natural beauty by bike, or swimming in a lake or the ocean, many great travel experiences involve some sort of physical activity. You may be wondering what this has to do with mental health – but exercise is said to have a hugely positive impact on mental wellbeing. The Mental Health Foundation state that physical activity can increase alertness and self-esteem, boost our energy and mood, and reduce stress and anxiety.
Whether you work in a stressful environment, are always on the go as a business owner, or have a consistently busy diary with family and social commitments, it’s important to take time out to relax. If not, you could risk burning out. Travelling is a great way to completely switch off from your hectic schedule, as it gives you both physical and mental distance from your usual surroundings. This offers your brain real down time and allows you to rest and rejuvenate – so you can head back to the daily grind feeling refreshed and ready to go.
If you’d like to take advantage of some of the mental health benefits of travelling, allow us to help you plan the perfect getaway. Booking a private jet with us will mean you get from A to B in the utmost comfort and enjoy the peace and quiet you need to get your trip off to the best start. If you’re a spontaneous traveller, our Program membership may be the ideal option, as it allows you to jet off in as little as 24 hours’ notice. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to arrange your next travel adventure.
