Pack Your Bags, Ladies: Traveling is the New Therapy!
April 17, 2023
Traveling is the New Therapy - Stacey Inal Therapy

Written By Stacey Inal  MA, MBA,
Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Women’s Life Coach

Pack Your Bags, Ladies: Traveling is the New Therapy!

Are you feeling overworked, stressed out, and in need of some serious self-care? Well, I’ve got news for you: traveling is the new self-care. That’s right, forget about massages and bubble baths, pack your bags and book a trip to a destination that’s going to heal your mind, body, and soul.

According to recent statistics, 72% of Americans are planning to take at least one vacation in 2023 and 82% are planning to travel in 2024. It’s clear that people are realizing the importance of taking a break from their daily routine and exploring new places. Every year I try to book at least one trip to explore a new place or area I have never visited before. Sometimes it is just an overnight stay and other times the trips have been over two weeks.

There are several reasons why women, in particular, benefit from traveling. First, women often have a lot on their plates – from work to caregiving to managing household responsibilities, and everything in between. Traveling can offer a much-needed break from the daily grind and allow women to focus on themselves for a change. This has certainly been the case for me.

Additionally, travel can be a great way for women to push themselves out of their comfort zones and try new things. This can lead to increased confidence and a sense of empowerment. Exploring new cultures, trying new foods, and learning new skills can all contribute to personal growth and development.

Traveling is the New Therapy!

Traveling can also be a great way for women to connect with other people, whether it be locals or other travelers. Social connections are important for overall well-being, and traveling can provide opportunities for meaningful interactions with others. Check out Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King’s Instagram accounts just to see the fun adventures they take with their friends.

Traveling can offer a sense of adventure and excitement that can be hard to find in everyday life. Trying new activities and exploring new destinations can help women break out of a rut and feel more fulfilled.  It certainly can help break up the monotony of everyday life and offer a fresh perspective. Nowadays there are all types of trips for all types of budgets and desired destinations. The travel site, AdventureWomen was created by women for women and offers many trips and vacation options.

All of these benefits can contribute to reduced stress and increased happiness for women who travel. By taking a break from the daily routine and prioritizing self-care through travel, women can return to their daily lives feeling recharged, refreshed, and ready to take on whatever comes their way.

It’s no surprise that women are increasingly booking travel for 2023 and 2024, as the benefits of travel for mental health become more widely recognized. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, there are many destinations and experiences that can offer women the self-care they need.

Not convinced yet? Let’s talk about the benefits of traveling for your mental health. Taking a vacation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s a chance to disconnect from your daily responsibilities and recharge your batteries. Plus, exploring new places and experiencing different cultures can broaden your perspective and boost your creativity.

So, where should you go for the ultimate self-care vacation? Here are some ideas:

  1. Costa Rica: This Central American paradise is known for its natural beauty, eco-tourism, and wellness retreats. Immerse yourself in nature by hiking through the rainforest, surfing on the coast, or relaxing in a hot spring. You can also check out some of the country’s famous yoga and meditation retreats. There are many wonderful retreats offered and the destination is not too far from the United States.
  2. Bali, Indonesia: Bali is a destination that’s all about finding balance and inner peace. Take a yoga class, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore some of the island’s stunning temples and beaches. Bali is also known for its healthy, plant-based cuisine, so you can nourish your body while you’re there.
  3. Sedona, Arizona: If you’re looking for a spiritual retreat, Sedona is the place to go. This desert town is known for its energy vortexes, which are said to have healing properties. You can also explore the stunning Red Rock formations, take a guided meditation hike, or try a sound healing session. This is one of my all time favorite destination because of the beautiful red rock mountain range and gorgeous sunsets.
  4. Iceland: Iceland is a destination that’s all about natural beauty and adventure. Take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon, go hiking on a glacier, or witness the Northern Lights. Iceland is also known for its geothermal pools and spas, so you can relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring.
  5. Tulum, Mexico: Tulum is a bohemian beach town that’s all about relaxation and self-care. You can take a yoga class on the beach, visit a Mayan ruin, or indulge in some of the town’s famous healthy cuisine. Tulum is also home to some stunning eco-friendly resorts and spas.

These are just a few ideas, but there are endless destinations that can offer the self-care vacation you need. And don’t worry, you don’t have to break the bank to take a self-care vacation. There are plenty of budget-friendly options out there, like camping, road trips, or staying at a hostel.

In conclusion, traveling is the ultimate self-care practice. It allows you to disconnect from your daily routine, explore new places, and recharge your batteries. So, book that trip you’ve been dreaming about and give yourself the self-care you deserve. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.

Resources:

  • “The Power of Travel: 2021 Insights” by Expedia Group Media Solutions
  • “The Psychology of Travel” by Psychology Today
  • The Benefits of Traveling for Your Mental Health” by Forbes
  • “20 Wellness Retreats to Reset Your Mind and Body” by Travel + Leisure.

 

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