Traveling to other states in the US or around the world is a fun pastime, but did you know it’s actually proven to be beneficial for your mental health? Traveling isn’t merely about seeing a new place; it’s about becoming a new you. It allows you to reset, recharge, and return to the grind with a renewed force. Here are some of the benefits of travel for your mental health.
- Travel Reduces Stress
Taking a vacation is one of the best things you can do to reduce your stress level. Taking time off work isn’t enough — you need to get away from your everyday environment. Traveling allows you to rest while you shift your focus to your new surroundings.
To get the most stress-relief out of your next vacation, prohibit yourself from doing any work-related activities that aren’t absolutely necessary. Don’t check your email, voicemail, or text messages. Unplug entirely, if possible. Also, make an effort to keep your vacation to-do list fun and stress-free.
- Travel Boosts Happiness
Traveling boosts happiness, even before you leave for your trip. A study by the University of Surrey found that people are happiest when they are anticipating a future vacation. The idea of going on a vacation is exciting and gives you something to look forward to during your daily routine.
Traveling makes people happy for other obvious reasons. You get to see new places, take a break from work, and enjoy experiences that you can’t find at home. You also get more time to focus on your loved ones and strengthen your relationships. After your trip, although you may be temporarily disappointed that it’s over, you’ll have fond memories to look back on.
- Travel Increases Creativity
Switching up your environment has also been shown to boost creativity. When you find yourself in a new place, you are more likely to see things from a new perspective, experience paradigm shifts, and come up with fresh ideas. So, if you’ve been experiencing a creativity dry spell, a vacation may be just what you need to get your creative juices flowing again.
The best way to experience an increase in creativity on your trip is to immerse yourself in the culture you are in, according to Adam Galinsky of Colombia Business School. So, if boosting creativity is high on your priority list, travel internationally, and be sure to step out the resort and experience the local culture.