Mindfulness is a new buzzword seen everywhere these days, which is unfortunate, because we all know that buzzwords become overused, monotonous, and then, eventually, ignored. By its very definition, this is a word that we should take seriously in all aspects of our lives.
mind·ful·ness
/ˈmīn(d)f(ə)lnəs/
noun
- a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.
We have all described our lives at one point or another as hectic, crazy, busy, even overwhelming, and creating a steady state of mindfulness, (or even working towards this goal), is obviously a desirable state of being that will result in more peace in our days.
Travel is an obvious opportunity to take the time to relax, meditate and add some mindful practices to our time off.
Here are a few tips for a more mindful vacation:
- Do a to a digital detox; embrace your trip without your computer or phone for 1, 2 or 3 days.
- Talk to the people you meet! Sit at the bar instead of a table, or look around you on the beach, talk to people! Who knows? you may make new friends!
- Get your beauty sleep. We are tempted to stay up late and get up early on vacation, and the fact is, mindfulness contributes to good sleep and good sleep contributes to mindfulness, so try to get enough sleep.
- Take a spa day! There is nothing like relaxing music and a massage or pedicure or any treatment that appeals to you to recharge your internal battery.
- Drink plenty of water. Drinking water can prevent dehydration, a condition that can cause your body to overheat, causing unclear thinking and often resulting in negative mood changes. Dehydration can even lead to more serious health issues. So, be sure to drink plenty of water during your travels.
- Try something new; horseback riding, surfing, snorkelling, basket weaving… the possibilities are endless!
- Look with your eyes, not the lens. Take the time to walk, sit and really look around you without worrying about pictures.
- Meditate. Even a few minutes of mindful breathing can improve your mindset as you explore!
- Take a yoga class. In addition to its obvious physical benefits, Yoga has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety and improve your mental health. Classes are everywhere, so find one and go!
- Keep a journal! The habit of journaling leads to reduced stress & increased optimism, it also improves memory, strengthens the immune system and alleviates depression. You will also have a great record to look back on when remembering your holiday.
Speaking of journaling … and other travel tips. This author has created “There You Go”, a unique travel journal, complete with prompts for journaling and filled with helpful tips for travel.
Find it on Amazon:
There You Go – a Travel Journal (Amazon USA)
There You Go – a Travel Journal (Amazon Canada)
And other countries.
Ellen Douglas is a Writer, TV & Media Producer, Filmmaker, avid Traveller, Photographer and Story-Teller.
Follow on Social Media:
TikTok @AlwaysEllen or
Insta @Always_Ellen
