Traveling is fun, but it can be so much more. If you really want to take a trip that will make a significant mark on your health and well-being for the long term, it’s time to plan a self-care getaway.
Often referred to as intentional travel, a self-care getaway can be a trip that you take when you are looking to heal from a sad occurrence in your life (e.g., the death of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, the loss of a job, etc.). It can also be used to celebrate something wonderful, like graduating from college or getting a new job/promotion.
Traveling with a specific purpose in mind can do wonders for your mental health. Amid the busyness of everyday life, it can be difficult to process big events in your life and practice the self-care necessary for your health and wellness. But taking a self-care getaway can provide you with ample space to think through your life, gain perspective, solve problems, make important decisions, and reduce stress.
Jack Up Your Life offers some practical tips for how you can plan a meaningful (and effective) self-care getaway in 2021.
Determine your ultimate goal.
What are you hoping to gain from your trip? Are you looking to recover from a significant disappointment or devastation? Do you need perspective on how to navigate the next chapter in your life? From the get-go, figure out what you want the final result of your self-care getaway to be, and then you can start brainstorming destinations and activities.
Research…a lot.
Since we’re living in the age of COVID-19, chances are your travel will come with restrictions for the time being. But even if you can’t travel long distances, you can plan a trip that will rock your world and boost your well-being. Take the time to do thorough research on your area and surrounding areas. There are probably a number of nearby destinations (including closer to home) that will give you exactly what you need.
For example, if you live in the Long Beach area, there is no shortage of options for creating an awesome staycation. You can design a budget-friendly trip by lodging in a vacation rental instead of dishing out money for travel and hotels. Many rentals offer 24/7 on-site support, professional cleaning services, and fully equipped kitchens so you can continue to eat healthy.
Try something new.
When planning your self-care getaway, make room for discovery. Leaving your comfort zone, even just for a moment, has a way of expanding your perspective and rejuvenating your mind and body. Whether it’s trying a new activity (e.g., paragliding, sailing, fishing, etc.), dabbling in a new language, or reading a new type of book (i.e.: Becoming . . .), find some way of challenging yourself during your trip. By the way, you can accomplish this even if you’re taking a micro adventure at home!
Go natural.
Finally, make sure you get some time outside. Being in nature comes with a wide range of mental health benefits such as reduced stress and a boosted mood. Whether you’re looking to heal from a difficult experience or celebrate a milestone, spending time outdoors can re-energize, inspire, and relax you while also providing you with a greater perspective.
No matter what you’re going through, chances are you could benefit from a self-care getaway. When planning your trip, remember to establish an end-goal and do lots of research into the nearby destinations and activities available. Also, leave room for new discoveries, and be sure to spend time outdoors. And plan to come back from your trip in a much better place both mentally and emotionally!
Learn about growth, improving self-esteem, and the power of self-awareness through life coaching sessions with Jack Mierop. Complete this form to learn more!
By Gabriel Patel
