Traveling is much more than a change of scenery; it is an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, learn, and grow.
The world is vast, full of colors, flavors, sounds, and textures that awaken our senses. Every unknown corner is an invitation to explore not only what surrounds us, but also what we carry inside.
Whether it’s a distant or nearby destination, something new or familiar, changing your routine is always a good option to renew yourself. Have you ever stopped to think about what’s behind that feeling of well-being we experience when we discover new things?
Traveling, more than the experience of discovering a different place is an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, to feel alive and present.
The power of being present
Traveling takes us out of our routine and invites us to be more attentive to the present. Ana Gabriela Dubón, a psychologist and expert in contextual therapy, explains that “when one is more present, people feel as if they are more awake, more alive.”
This connection to the present moment is key to reducing stress and anxiety. “Travel almost always evokes that feeling of openness to experience, which makes everything feel better,” she adds.
In addition, traveling generally awakens curiosity, a sense of adventure, and provides a feeling of being alert.
However, Dubón clarifies that not everyone experiences this in the same way. “If someone is going through a moment of depression, it may be more difficult for them to connect with the stimuli present,” he points out. In these cases, the “fusion” with negative thoughts and emotions can make the experience more difficult.
How changing routine helps the brain
One of the most fascinating aspects of traveling is its impact on the brain. Dubón stresses that traveling improves neuroplasticity, that is, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections.
“When you travel, there is a lot of new learning going on, and new connections are being formed in your brain,” she explains. This not only enhances creativity and problem-solving but also stimulates curiosity and observation.
Psychologist Angie Mendoza agrees and adds that traveling activates neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with pleasure and happiness. “Every time we have a new experience, our brain generates new connections,” she says.
This “hormonal cocktail” not only makes us feel good but also helps release accumulated cortisol, the stress hormone. “Cortisol is not bad in itself, but when it accumulates, it can cause us problems. Travelling allows us to use it positively, as a source of energy to adapt to new situations,” she adds.
Mendoza also highlights how traveling confronts us with challenges that, although they may seem small, strengthen our ability to adapt and be resilient. “Facing unknown situations, such as asking for help in another language or finding resources in a new place, makes us more skilled and self-confident,” he says.
Travel as therapy, but with caution
Both Dubón and Mendoza agree that traveling can be a therapeutic experience, but it should not be seen as a magic solution. “It does not serve the purpose of a psychotherapy process, but it can contribute to well-being,” Mendoza explains.
Dubón also mentions that traveling is not advisable when it becomes a way to avoid problems. “If every time you feel bad you decide to travel to escape, that will not help you solve what is affecting you,” warns Dubón.
Mendoza adds that traveling without expectations is key to fully enjoying yourself. “Just because you try a new dish or visit an unknown beach doesn’t mean you’ll like it. The idea is to explore and be open to the experience,” he recommends.
This openness will allow us not to be disappointed if something is not as we expected and to have a better experience if something turns out to be better or more beautiful than we imagined.
Mendoza also recommends trips that allow for a connection with nature. “ When we have contact with nature , such as a river, a volcano or a beach, the benefits for mental health are even greater,” she says. This is because these environments allow us to breathe purer air, reduce visual and auditory noise, and connect with ourselves.
“It’s easier to reflect and find calm when you’re in front of the sea or a forest,” she explains. Unlike trips to places with a lot of activity, such as festivals or bustling cities, natural destinations offer a longer-lasting feeling of well-being.
A tool for resilience
Mendoza also highlights how traveling can help us overcome difficult times, such as a loss or a breakup. “Traveling puts us in a state of survival, where we stop focusing on what hurts us and start seeing other facets of life,” she explains. This experience allows us to gain perspective and strengthen our resilience.
“When we manage to adapt to a new place, overcome obstacles, and feel capable, it reinforces our self-esteem and helps us face other challenges,” she says. In addition, travel can be a way to let go and move forward. “Grief involves movement, and traveling is a literal way to move forward,” she adds.
Psychological benefits of traveling
Among the main benefits highlighted by experts are:
- Enhances the ability to observe and be present.
- It evokes curiosity and openness to new experiences.
- Promotes neuroplasticity and learning.
- Improves resilience and adaptability.
- Strengthens the connection with personal values.
Recommendations for a positive trip
For a trip to have a positive impact on mental health, Mendoza suggests:
- Plan with flexibility, accepting that not everything will go as expected. Not everything has to be perfect for you to enjoy it. Accept that there will be unforeseen events and take them as part of the adventure.
- Travel with people who foster a positive and friendly environment. Being accompanied by people with an optimistic and open outlook can make the experience more enriching.
- Travel with intention, not to escape. If you travel to escape problems, you will likely find yourself in the same situation when you return. Instead, travel to learn, grow, and enjoy.
- Prioritize natural destinations to connect with yourself. Nature has a unique therapeutic power. Look for places where you can reflect and reconnect with yourself.