“Many a trip continues long after movement in time and space have ceased.” – John Steinbeck
It doesn’t take much to convince someone that leisurely traveling is good for their health. Just look at the dazzling glow of a person that has returned from a vacation or the way their face beams when recalling an adventurous moment, or the gentle look of contentment after recalling a leisurely day spent relaxing by the pool. The positive effects of traveling may last for several days, but the health benefits linger on. Let us walk you through seven extraordinary health benefits of traveling.
➀ Relieves Stress
Stress relief is the number one health benefit from traveling, as stated by Dr. Margaret J. King, Director of the Center for Cultural Studies & Analysis. People love new environments and the novelty of interacting with novel experiences engages the mind and body in a unique, stress relieving way. Being in a fresh and exciting unknown venue creates the space for clarity, resetting, and relaxing. The benefits of travel extend far beyond enjoyment and can last for several days or weeks after your return.
➁ Promotes Heart Health
Travel promotes physical activity, whether it’s climbing a mountain or just lifting your suitcase at the airport, you are moving your body and lowering your blood pressure, lessening the risk of heart disease or stroke. The Framingham Heart Study found that women and men that travel annually are less likely to suffer from a heart attack or develop heart disease. In addition, the Global Commission on Aging Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies partnered with the U.S. Travel Association, concluding that women who vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer a heart attack. Alternatively, men who take an annual vacation are 30 percent less likely to be diagnosed with heart disease! That should be enough incentive to book that weekend getaway or voyage to a faraway land.
➂ Keeps You Fit
Being on the go is phenomenal physical activity, and traveling provides the perfect backdrop for exploration. Regardless of the destination you choose—whether it be a tropical beach, a cruise voyage, or a city adventure—you’re out of the office chair and experiencing life! It’s all about your attitude and your ability to take advantage of what a vacation has to offer. Tourists may walk as many as 10 miles in European cities or visiting Disney World! Looking for a tropical getaway? Beach vacations are the ideal option for romantic afternoon walks, swimming in the ocean, kayaking, paddle boarding, and much more. Boosting your physical activity goes a long way when it comes to your health. Pick an adventure, and let the good times roll.
➃ Enhances Creativity
There’s a reason Hemmingway traveled to Paris and Hunter S. Thompson voyaged to Puerto Rico. Traveling is the not-so-secret weapon of creative masterminds, worldwide. It boosts brain activity and increases inspiration. The neural pathways in the brain are stimulated by new environments, and the brain’s adaptability, also known as neuroplasticity, is sparked by these environments, creating new ideas. The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology published a study in 2012 that established a distinctive connection between a traveler’s creativity with their interaction and immersion into different cultures. Pack a journal, and test it for yourself.
➄ Creates Sense of Happiness & Well Being
Quite simply, traveling makes you happy. A study at Cornell University found that just the process of planning a trip increases happiness. We can all relate to the rush of adrenaline we feel when beginning to plan out a trip, the possibilities are endless. The entire process alleviates anxiety and holds a high level of value in a person’s life, making the person happier and boosting their mood.
➅ Lowers Risk of Depression
A research study from the Marshfield Clinic in Wisconsin concluded that women who vacation at least twice a year (or more) are more likely to be emotionally healthy and are less likely to suffer from depression and chronic stress. Where will this year take you?
➆ Helps You Live Longer
A healthy heart, relaxed body, creative mind, and an overall feeling of well-being contribute to having a longer life. Basically, all the aforementioned health benefits will help you live longer. People who travel often tend to have a longer life expectancy and they have more fun living it!
So, what are you waiting for? Book your next vacation today!
