Spend some time on social media. You won’t have to scroll too far into your Facebook or Instagram feed to find someone pitching the latest and greatest nutritional product. And why not? Our society has become more in tune with health and wellness. While there is no possible way to reverse the aging process, there is no reason for people to age badly either. NFL quarterback Tom Brady has proven that you can age well by watching what you eat and drink. At 44 years of age, this guy is still playing football at the highest level and winning Super Bowls–seven to be exact! There is no mistake that the 21st-century consumer is looking for products and services that promote better health and longevity. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded all of us of the importance of maintaining optimal health, so I wholeheartedly believe in the power of a healthy diet, exercise, and nutritional supplements. But while you are spending your hard-earned dollars on pills and potions, don’t miss out on the benefits of the beaches and the oceans.
If you ask the average person off the street if he/she likes to travel, most would probably say yes. People who have a longing to travel but make time for it usually attribute that to two reasons: they can’t afford to travel or can’t afford to take time off of work. The same people who have time to go to the doctor and ride by the pharmacy to pick up those prescription medicines designed to prolong life are the same ones who probably need a trip. Traveling the world doesn’t just create more fun, excitement, joy, and fulfillment in a person’s life. With research to back it up, the medical community is now recognizing that people who travel more frequently are living longer, healthier lives.
Here are four scientifically proven health benefits of traveling.
Benefit #1: Travel Lowers Risk for Depression
Depression is now an epidemic in our country, and COVID-19 has made it worse. One in six Americans takes some type of antidepressant to help them cope. However, there are healthier alternatives for escaping the state of hopelessness that depression often leaves people feeling. According to research, travel may be one of them. Studies have shown that frequent travelers benefit from the release of endorphins and oxytocin. The release of these hormones is what improves our mood and outlook on life.
Benefit #2: Traveling Relieves Stress
Although traveling can and does create stressful events like a missed flight and lost luggage, studies have shown that frequent travel actually lowers stress. The bottom line is that travel allows people an opportunity to refuel and recharge, and these positive benefits can last for many weeks even after the vacation is over. Studies have revealed that stress is one of the leading causes of chronic illness. So many individuals are living lives focused on the wrong things. While working and contributing is essential, nothing is more important than investing in relationships with friends and family members. And isn’t that really what traveling does? The technology-driven, mobile communication era we live in allows little time for people to escape and just relax. A well-planned vacation can accomplish this, provided all the members agree to unplug.
Benefit #3: Traveling Increases Satisfaction and Cultivates Happiness
One of my favorite moments on a cruise is the sail-away party. It’s incredible to see the smiles on people’s faces as the cruise ship is setting sail. I look forward to seeing cruise ships sail again soon. Most people tend to be happier when they’re traveling. Research collected by Cornell University reveals that people experience an immediate increase in happiness just by having a trip on their calendar. In fact, the study showed that the anticipation of taking a vacation is far greater than the anticipation of acquiring a possession like an expensive outfit. Thus, the benefits of travel begin immediately when you book the trip.
Benefit #4: Traveling Improves Heart Health
People tend to think of travel’s benefits as a short-term fix when it comes to travel. But science is validating that the health benefits are long-lasting. As part of the long-running Framingham Heart Study, which studied residents of Framingham, Massachusetts, women aged 45 to 64 were asked how often they took vacations. In a 20-year follow-up study, researchers found that women who vacationed every six years (or less frequently) had a significantly higher risk of developing a heart attack or coronary death compared with women who vacationed at least twice a year, even after adjusting for traditional risk factors such as blood pressure. A separate nine-year study for men revealed that annual vacations reduced the risk of death from any cause, and specifically death from heart disease. The research was collected from a group of men who were at high risk for coronary heart disease.
No Guilt Zone
So stop feeling guilty about spending money on that vacation. Getting away with family and friends is vital to health and longevity. I have never regretted one dime that I spent on trips because the experiences have enriched my life in so many ways. The time invested with friends and family has been so worth what it cost.
Go see the world!
Bill
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