We all want to be healthier & happier, right? But, did you know you can accomplish that goal by planning a trip? It’s no secret that traveling can be a lot of fun. But, it’s so much more than that! It introduces you to other ways of life, helps you to relax and reconnect, and gives you that much needed mental break from your never-ending to do list!
Research shows…
According to NBC, there are 5 scientifically proven health benefits to traveling abroad, including the following:
– Improves your heath – Women who travel more have less chance of suffering a heart attack than their home-body counterparts.
– Lowers your stress levels – The feelings of being less stressed, less anxious and being in a better mood can even last for weeks after you’re back home.
– Enhances your creativity – To get the most bang for your buck, you need to immerse yourself in the local culture. Seeing how other people do things can give you a whole new perspective.
– Boosts happiness & satisfaction – Even planning a trip can make you happier. The excitement of an upcoming trip outweighs the excitement we experience when we buy stuff.
– Lowers your risk of depression – One study found that women who travel two times or more each year are less likely to suffer from depression than those who travel less than once every two years.
But I’m too busy at work…
I know that sometimes it feels like it’s impossible to get away. Many people don’t even use the vacation time they have because they feel like they can’t afford to get behind.
Brigid Schulte, author of the New York Times best-selling book Overwhelmed: Work, Love and Play when No One has the Time, says that research shows that people who do not use their vacation time are “sicker, less productive, stressed, and more anxious and depressed—that affects your work as well.”
Sure, you’ll have some prep work to do before you leave. You’ll have some extra emails and clean-up to do when you return. But you will also be healthier overall for doing it, be a better employee & avoid burnout! So think through the best time to go (maybe your business has an off-season) or find someone to cover you & SCHEDULE IT!
In my experience…
I have personally found that I am so much more relaxed while on a trip – those tight muscles I always have between my shoulders seem to melt away! It’s so easy to be more present with my husband and son and I am able to enjoy them to the fullest.
In addition, I feel so much more a part of nature and the beauty around me. I have even noticed that, sometimes, when looking back at vacation pictures (especially beautiful landscapes), I can tap into that feeling again…it’s like I can actually feel what the air felt like and instantly I am more relaxed and grounded. Our pictures from Scotland do this for me every time!
Want to take your relaxation to a whole new level? Go somewhere a little bit off the grid. In this world we live in, we are so tied to our email, texting, Facebook, Instagram, etc. While these modern conveniences help us out in many ways, the pressure to respond immediately to every form of communication can be exhausting! Going to a place where your phone is almost useless, can be LIBERATING!
👍ARE YOU TRAVEL OBSESSED? Join ‘Our Travel Obsession' Facebook group!
Tell your friends and family ahead of time…”We are headed to Yosemite on Saturday and there is no cell service, so you won’t hear from me.” Give important info like where you will be staying and your flight information to your emergency contact. And then, just release that “tied to your phone” stress! It may be a little difficult at first, but I bet the world will not end while your off-line and you’ll probably really enjoy it (once you get past your FOMO).
Now go forth & TRAVEL!
Traveling isn’t just for fun. Make a point to travel a couple of times a year (even if close to home) and you’ll be healthier in mind, body & soul! Make it a priority, just like you would going to the doctor for your annual check up or fitting in regular exercise.
What are you waiting for? Go put it in your calendar RIGHT NOW and start planning! I’d love to hear from you – comment and let me know where you will go next or share with me your takeaways!
P.S. Have you ever forgotten to pack something? Let me send you my all-in-one packing checklist. It is a one-page printable checklist that you can use over and over again. It has EVERYTHING you need for ANY trip! Sign up below!
If you liked this post…check these out!
21 Inspiring Travel Quotes That Will Make You Want To Travel Now
Kid-Free Vacation – 11 Things To Do Before You Leave
Until next time…
Until next time…
About The Author
My mission is to inspire and empower families to prioritize travel now, creating unforgettable memories and deeper connections with their loved ones.
I provide guidance and practical solutions to help busy parents integrate travel into their lives, fostering joy, fulfillment, and stress-free adventures. Don’t wait until it’s too late; the time to travel is now.
Learn more about me & My Travel Obsession here.
My Favorite Travel Booking Apps & Websites
⭐MY TRAVEL OBSESSION:
- Products & Services – My Travel Obsession's travel planning products, services, and freebies!
- What To Pack – See all of my personal favorite travel items.
- Travel Resources – Resources that I use most when planning, booking & traveling.
🏡FOR FINDING GREAT PLACES TO STAY:
- VRBO – My #1 recommendation for family-friendly lodging options.
- Expedia – My favorite for hotel bookings.
🚗FOR CAR & RV RENTALS:
- Discover Cars & Sixt – My favorite sites for rental cars worldwide.
- Turo.com – Rent a car from an individual owner – It's like VRBO for cars!
- RVShare – Rent an RV for your next family road trip!
🚁FOR ACTIVITIES, EXCURSIONS, & TOURS:
- Viator & Get Your Guide – The best sites to find and book activities & excursions.
- Gypsy Guide – An AWESOME audio tour app. ALWAYS check to see if they have a tour available.
🩺FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- SafetyWing – The lowest-cost travel insurance out there. Several options starting as low as $42 for 4 weeks of coverage.
✈FOR FINDING GREAT FLIGHT DEALS:
- Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) – My #1 recommendation for saving big $$$ on flights. Sign up for a free 14-day trial.
🥾FOR HIKING:
- AllTrails – THE APP for hikers. I recommend paying for the pro version so you can use the navigation feature while hiking.
Once you're done here, head to the homepage to explore or jump to one of these categories: Texas Travel ~ US Travel ~ International Travel ~ Travel Tips & Tricks ~ Travel Gear & Gadgets ~ What To Pack ~ Travel Planning ~ Shop
Pingback: Packing Hacks You Never Knew ⋆ My Travel Obsession