Why Travel Is Good for You

Relieving Stress
You aren’t imagining the feeling of serenity that washes over you as soon as you step off the plane and into the heat. One 2013 study found that more than 80% of those surveyed noticed significant drops in stress after just a day or two of traveling, while another found that four-day long weekend vacations positively impacted perceived stress for as long as 45 days after the trip.

But why is this? 

Firstly, like spending time in nature, taking a vacation asks you to physically step away from stressors at work or home. Plus, this break away can help you gain a new perspective on situations and feel more equipped to tackle challenges when you return.

Vacations can also help you combat burnout, a real, chronic-stress-related condition that depletes your physical and mental energy. A week spent away from the office provides the time you need to enjoy activities that leave you feeling revitalized, whether that be reading by the beach or wandering a museum. By prioritizing self-care, you can return to reality feeling more rejuvenated, creative, and productive.

Deepening Connections
Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a significant other, vacations allow you to spend quality time with those you love, something that can be difficult to carve out in your day-to-day life. 

There are also specific benefits for those in romantic relationships. A study by the Arizona Department of Health and Human Services found that women who took vacations were more satisfied with their marriages, while a survey by the US Travel Association of couples who travel together revealed that travel can help maintain romance and open lines of communication. 

Building Resilience 
While we’ve focused a lot on the positive side of vacations, we also know that sometimes things don’t go as planned. From minor issues like flight delays to more serious problems like losing a passport or becoming lost, there can be plenty of hurdles to face on holiday.

While facing these difficulties in a new environment can be more daunting than it would be at home, they can also help you become more patient, adaptable, and emotionally strong. For example, while your luggage getting lost in transit can be panic-inducing, it also provides the opportunity for you to learn to accept situations you can’t control and adapt your plans and mindset accordingly. Learning to overcome challenges like this away from home and the support systems you have there can help you build resilience and gain confidence in your own abilities