Traveling has many positive effects on mental health, which are not just mere claims but have been scientifically proven as well. Traveling brings peace of mind. As for myself, when I look at nature, I forget all my problems, and it feels like my life is paused when I see beautiful mountains, trees, and lakes. It gives me a unique kind of peace and happiness.
The human mind is significantly influenced by its surroundings. If you are familiar with medical science, you would know that our body produces enzymatic secretions in response to our environment. For example, if you’re in a stressful environment, you will likely feel worried too. On the other hand, if you live in a peaceful & happy environment, your mental health will be better.
How Traveling Affects Mental Health?
Now, I will scientifically explain how traveling affects mental health.
Reduction in Cortisol Levels:
Cortisol is the stress hormone. Cortisol level increases if you live in depressed environments. Science has proved that travel can reduce cortisol levels, which results in decreased stress and good mental health.
A study conducted in Austria surveyed middle managers and found that their cortisol levels significantly decreased after taking a vacation. This drop in cortisol level was associated with a decrease in stress levels, which lasted for several weeks after returning from their trip.
Just like when you’re on your way to NathiaGali and there’s a lot of traffic, your mood automatically gets worse, and you might even get angry. But when you finally reach your destination then your mood naturally improves, and you start feeling happy.
Increase Dopamine & Serotonin Hormone:
Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters that control your mood swings.
When you travel and engage with beautiful environments, this ultimately results in increased dopamine levels which enhances your feelings of pleasure and happiness.
This is why the anticipation of travel can make people feel happier.
Additionally, if you are in an outdoor environment or relaxing on the beach and exposed to sunlight, it results in serotonin production, which also contributes to a more positive mood and reduced anxiety.
Enhance Neuroplasticity:
Traveling introduces you and your brain to new experiences, which can enhance neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and adapt due to experiences.
When you visit beautiful places, explore different cultures, and interact with new people, your exposure and experiences increase, which results in enhanced neuroplasticity.
With better neuroplasticity, you become more creative, and your thinking ability also improves, which helps in reducing stress and makes you feel happier.
Boost Mental Stamina:
When you travel, you face various situations, such as a person who stays only at home and doesn’t travel much having less capacity to handle different situations and not understanding how to manage them.
On the other hand, someone who travels a lot has more ability to tackle situations because they have more exposure.
A study published in the journal Psychology & Health stated that people who travel frequently handle difficult situations better and are less prone to depression and poor medical health.
Also Read: How to Avoid Jet Lag When Traveling To Europe
Some Soul-Soothing Destinations to Boost Your Mental Health:
Japan: Japan is considered a very peaceful and soul-southing destination. You might know about the Japanese practice of “forest bathing” (shinrin-yoku) which involves spending time in forests to improve mental and physical health. Walking among trees can make you feel stress-free and happy.
In Japan, you must go to Kyoto for Zen practices, as there are various beautiful Zen Gardens. And this is also scientifically proven that Zen helps reduce stress and to improve mental health.
Swiss Alps: Mountain therapy is best for mental health. And I think the Swiss Alps are best for mountains. Hiking in the mountains is incredibly rejuvenating because during hiking there is a release of endorphins which are natural mood boosters.
Sedona, Arizona, USA: Sedona is famous for its energy vortexes, the special energy spots that people think have healing effects. The red rock scenery of Sedona and its spiritual vibe is a great place to relax and to forget worries and life tensions.
Bali, Indonesia: Bali is the best place for meditation and yoga practices. Yoga is best for reducing anxiety or depression and there are also other health benefits like better breath and oxygen circulation.
Medical Information References:
- Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine
- Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience
Caution: There is no doubt that traveling can improve mental health, but also keep in mind that if you don’t pay attention to your diet and eat too much junk and unhealthy food while traveling, you might get sick, which can also affect your mental well-being. Therefore, take care of your diet during your travels and consume nuts, oats, fruits and I would prefer you to use chia seeds these things can beat your hunger, and also provide you with essential nutrients. And if you’re truly traveling to enhance your mental health, choose destinations that are not too crowded and are safe.
