Sadudee Sangnil shares 5 reminders of why travel is vital for your mental health. It’s an act of self-care, so plan your next holiday now!
The latest Mental State of the World report has identified South Africa as the lowest-ranked country based on mental wellbeing. Considering these statistics, it’s important that individuals find ways to reduce this stress. As we wrap up World Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to shine the light on activities that have a positive impact on one’s well-being. Travelling, in particular, has been found to boost physical and psychological well-being and, by extension, contributes to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand London, Sadudee Sangnil, says that people travelling for mental well-being have given the rise to wellness tourism, which is defined as travel to promote one’s health and well-being through physical, psychological, or spiritual activities.
“The most important trend of the twenty-first century has been raising awareness about mental health issues. For many, travelling may sound at first like you’re running from your problems, but the truth can be quite the opposite. Wellness tourism has taught us that travel is not only about making memories and meeting new people but also about exploring new places and getting out of one’s comfort zone. An individual’s mental health can benefit greatly from this.”
Sangnil shares a few reminders of why travelling is good for mental health.
1. Development of stronger mental health:
On a wellness retreat where practices like meditation and mindfulness are emphasised, people are able to learn new skills that they can adapt and continue to use when they return home.
2. Lowers stress levels:
Often the body and mind need to rest, which is what you can achieve when choosing to stay at a wellness retreat. Escape from the daily stressful life in exchange for afternoon naps, leisurely walks, and the freedom to do things in your own time and on your own schedule.
3. Boosts self-esteem and confidence:
In a country where a different language is spoken or if you engage in adrenaline-fuelled activities like skydiving, you’re bound to encounter things that take you out of your comfort zone.
People can learn something new about themselves or develop new skills by putting themselves in unfamiliar situations. This can often lead to a self-confidence boost as you’re demonstrating that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Increased self-esteem can help you achieve success in many areas of your life, from securing a new business deal to meeting a personal goal.
4. Develops creativity:
Travelling fosters in-depth creativity by engaging with the local culture and increasing productivity. A short vacation may seem stressful to some but planning a trip can enhance your creativity even on a short, local trip.
5. It’s an act of self-care:
Self-care is essential for developing resilience in the face of life’s unavoidable stressors. You’ll be better equipped to live your best life if you’ve taken steps to care for your mind and body. If you’re not taking care of yourself, stress-relieving efforts will not work.
For more information, contact siphosethu.pama@mslgroup.com