According to the Oxford dictionary, “self-care is the practice of taking an active role in
protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress”.
In this climate of “faking it til you make it” more and more people are slipping between
the cracks.
It’s okay to not have it all together every second of the day. What’s not okay is
pretending you’re fine. Basically, it’s more important than ever to protect your well-being. Keep on reading to find out how travel can do just that.
1. Attitude of Gratitude
Seeing the world from a new perspective helps to not only open your mind but increase
your appreciation for the life you have. When you do the same things and talk to the same people every day it’s quite easy to get tunnel vision.
Stepping into the unknown forces you to see and think differently. This can ultimately lead to improved life satisfaction and gratitude. Numerous studies have been done highlighting the effects of a positive attitude and gratitude.
It can improve your immune system, speed up recovery, and even significantly lower
stress. If you enjoy traveling then this should be all the justification you need to book
your next trip.
2. Decrease Stress
No doubt about it, stress is a killer. According to the American Psychological Association, stress is linked to 6 major causes of death. Fortunately, travel can potentially combat some of that.
Quality time away with like-minded individuals not only builds healthy relationships but
also increases happiness which then lowers your stress threshold. The happier you are, the less likely you are to be triggered by an unexpected occurrence. Having time to do as much or as little as you’d like truly yields a high return on your investment.
3. Digital Break-Up
While this digital era may have come with a whole lot of improvements, it equally has its
drawbacks. One of which is a decline in people’s mental health.
Social media has exacerbated feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and FOMO. People’s
identities are so tied to their followers/friends that they don’t even know who they are in
real life. Even if you don’t take a vacation to do so, setting some time aside for a digital break
can drastically improve your mood and overall well-being.
Alternatively, not posting everything on social media while you are on vacation can be
just as beneficial. Really unplug and disappear while you can.
4. Self Discovery
I’m a firm believer that you don’t fully know who you are until you’ve traveled. More
specifically, travel someplace radically different than what you’re used to.
We say this probably a dozen times a month, but if it doesn’t challenge you then it won’t
change you.
Growth comes from challenges. Character is built from challenges. Perseverance is developed from challenges.
Okay, I think you get the point now.
When we make an effort to break away from our comfort zone, we uncover so much
about ourselves in the process. Having that opportunity can then lead to increased
self-awareness and even aid in revealing a newfound purpose in life.
That’s not just me selling you on why you should travel either. I’m speaking from
personal experience. Travel has simultaneously saved and given me life.
5. It’s Fun
Let’s face it. Many millennials, particularly those of melanated complexion, are
bombarded with obstacles and setbacks daily. It is an absolute must to find an outlet to have some fun.
Why not make it travel?
“You won’t regret the things you did, but you will regret all the things you didn’t do”.Try that thing you’ve always wanted to do.
Discover new food and beverages. Really thrill yourself with a shocking excursion.
It’s really so much more affordable than you might think. With proper planning and budgeting, you can make travel a staple in your life.
I can hear some of you saying under your breath how money isn’t the problem girl;
your flaky friends are. Listen, Linda! That’s no excuse either. Groups like Luxe Tribes have cultivated an inviting environment for women just like you.
Summary
YOU DESERVE NICE THINGS, SIS! And I’m not shouting at you, I’m just very
passionate about this final point.
As black women, we bare so much but receive so little. When you’re constantly giving,
you can start to feel guilty about taking.
DON’T!
How can you expect to give your best when you’re depleted? A weekend away can be a reset button to replenish all you’ve lost.
Getaway, clear your mind, and most importantly have some fun!
Is travel already a part of your self-care routine? Let us know in the comments how you
protect and maintain your peace.
About the Author:
Ayishia is a self-proclaimed Charleston native and pseudo digital nomad. After quitting her job in 2020 on the belief that there’s more than one way to make a living, she now lives life on her own terms. Connect with her on her website ayishiaparsley.com
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