Rest for the Soul and Body: Health Benefits of Travel

Travel can significantly improve physical and mental well-being by offering an escape from daily routines and stress. In a world where people face work overload, daily stress, and reduced time for rest, travel has become essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Benefits of Travel for Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health

Studies show that regular travel can significantly reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. People often report feeling happier before, during, and shortly after travel, and the positive experiences during a trip contribute to a greater sense of life satisfaction (Chen & Petrick, 2013). According to a study from the United Kingdom, people who have the opportunity to travel outside their local area report better self-rated health and a greater sense of control over their lives, while those who are limited in travel report poorer physical and mental health (Anciaes & Metcalfe, 2022). Going on vacation helps relieve stress and tension that builds up during daily routines, allowing for mental and physical relaxation (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024). Travel also has the potential to improve creativity and mental abilities. Exposure to new cultures, language learning, and other experiences can contribute to better problem-solving skills and a broader worldview (Chen & Petrick, 2013). Regularly exploring new places and cultures positively impacts mental health by reducing stress and increasing creativity, while occasional escapes from everyday life allow the mind to rest and recharge (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024).

These studies suggest that while travel can be beneficial for mental health, it does not guarantee long-term effects and should not replace professional therapy, especially in cases of anxiety or depression (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024). Although the benefits of travel generally last less than a month, regular travel can extend the feeling of relaxation and reduce the negative effects of stress (Chen & Petrick, 2013).

Benefits of Travel for Physical Health

Studies also suggest that travel can improve physical health. While evidence is limited, some research indicates that frequent travel may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, likely due to physical activities associated with travel, such as hiking or other forms of movement (Chen & Petrick, 2013), as well as the reduction of stress during travel, which is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Paper, 2024). Studies show that people who take vacations every two years, compared to those who take vacations every six years, have a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease or heart attacks (Ibid). A 2019 study in the U.S. found that workers who took more vacation days had fewer symptoms of metabolic syndrome (which includes obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance) compared to those who did not take vacation (Hruska, et al., 2019).

Social Benefits of Travel

Regular travel outside the local area also enhances social inclusion, as it facilitates better connections with friends and family. Reducing social isolation contributes to better mental balance (Anciaes & Metcalfe, 2022). One study showed that couples who engaged in interesting, challenging, and exciting activities during their vacation experienced higher intimacy and relationship satisfaction, which lasted even after returning to daily routines. Vacation also provides an opportunity for siblings to bond in ways they might not during regular life (Paper, 2024).

Conclusion

Although the first association with travel is relaxation and rest, and the mentioned health benefits clearly indicate that travel can significantly contribute to the health of the mind and body, it is necessary to consider that we cannot rely solely on travel as a therapeutic tool. If you are feeling anxious or depressed, it is best to seek professional help (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024). Additionally, during travel, one may encounter various health risks, such as changes in weather conditions, pollution, exposure to diseases, and safety concerns. Stress related to international travel, as well as changes in the circadian rhythm, can cause physical and psychological issues, such as migraines or seizures in people with epilepsy. Therefore, before traveling, it is important to be informed about potential risks and take preventive measures (WHO, n.d.).

*This text is intended for informational purposes only. If you experience any symptoms, it is recommended that you seek advice from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.

Reference

• Anciaes, P., & Metcalfe, P. (2022). Constraints to travel outside the local area: Effect on social participation and self-rated health. Travel Behaviour and Society. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tbs.2022.08.003
• Chen, C.-C., & Petrick, J. F. (2013). Health and wellness benefits of travel experiences: A literature review. Journal of Travel Research, 52(6), 709–719. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287513496477
• Hruska, B., Pressman, S. D., Bendinskas, K., & Gump, B. B. (2019). Vacation frequency is associated with metabolic syndrome and symptoms. Psychology & Health, 35(1), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/08870446.2019.1628962
• Paper, S. (2024, February 26). Importance of taking a vacation. Allina Health. https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/thrive/importance-of-taking-a-vacation
• WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2024, February 25). How travel affects mental health. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/how-travel-affects-mental-health
• White Field Photo. (2018, November 4). Person standing beside brown leather handbag [Photograph]. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/person-stranding-beside-brown-leather-handbag-thIarMEfujc
• World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Travel and Health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/travel-and-health#tab=tab_1