here’s been many times in my life when I’ve just needed to travel – it felt like the only thing I could do at that point in time to preserve my body, mind and soul. For example (and we’ve all been there)…
Splitting up with my first love, check.
Not getting that job I’d worked so hard for, check.
Experiencing unmanageable levels of anxiety, check.
All reasonable reasons to go explore the world and now all justified, thanks to a large number of studies, psychologists and scientists. So, here’s 8 reasons why you need to ask for that sabbatical, take that grown-up gap year or just have a fancy weekender – it’ll do you a world of good…
1/ It’s good for your health
Whether you’re rushing to the airport, wandering the streets of somewhere new or hiking a UNESCO heritage site, chances are when you’re travelling, you’ll also be taking part in some kind of physical activity. It’s this physical activity that lowers your blood pressure, which in turn lowers your risk of heart problems. It’s even been scientifically proven that those of you who take a holiday annually as opposed to more than once a year, are more likely to develop heart conditions in later life. Basically, get packing that suitcase!
2/ It’s brain exercise
When you’re exploring new countries or even new experiences, this actually challenges your brain and keeps your mind sharp – warding off degenerative diseases, like Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Travel can help improve your memory, concentration and social skills by remembering routes you’ve taken, concentrating on new languages and meeting local people in their own environment. Travel works particularly well, in this scenario, if you visit different places instead of old favourites.
3/ You’ll feel inspired
There’s a reason why writers decide to holiday when penning their next novel, it’s because travel breeds inspiration and motivation. Scientists have proven that travelling sparks synapses in the brain that create new neural pathways, leading to enhanced creativity. According to scientists, the more you engage with a new culture, the more creative you will be – we mean leaving your villa or AirBnB and exploring, just for clarification. This creativity will impact you not just at home but in your work life too, leading to more promotions… potentially. Sabbatical anyone?
“People who integrate a new culture into their identities are more creative in the long run.” William Maddux, Ph.D., Academy of Management Journal
4/ Travel helps you unwind
In a recent survey, 89 per cent of travellers said that they felt more relaxed after just a day on holiday. This is because being made to break with daily routines and surround yourself in a new setting results in significant stress reduction. To make the most of this ‘break from normality’, take advantage of the leisure activities on offer too – these can help stave off depression and improve your own personal sense of happiness. And the best thing is? This break or holiday need only be a weekend to get the full effects. What’s more, when you return, you’ll feel less stressed, more satisfied and with a positive outlook compared to those who didn’t travel.
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