Even the most enjoyable, relaxing activities can be stressful at times, and travel is no exception. Getting from one place to another, navigating unfamiliar locations, and coping with your travel companions can fray even the strongest of nerves.
Therefore, when you travel, practicing meditation can help you tremendously. You might not be able to prevent lost luggage, missed flights, or canceled boat trips, but with meditation, you can remain calm in the face of adversity and put your most zen face forward. Staying calm while everyone else around you is losing their head will make your vacation far more enjoyable. Whether you’re jetting off to an exotic location or taking a leisurely cruise on the Mexican Riviera, try meditation to add a touch of peace, calm, and tranquility to your adventure. Here are four tips for meditating on vacation:
1. Accept your anxiety.
Travel anxiety can be a real problem, but fortunately, meditation can help to manage your stress. The key to meditation is to accept your anxiety, not fight against it, which may sound counterintuitive but is actually quite wise. After all, struggling to fight against your feelings of nervousness or stress can actually add to them. Instead, try some simple breathing exercises.
2. Be aware of your surroundings.
Mindfulness is at the heart of meditation, but staying mindful can be difficult when you’re on the move. When you travel, try to bring awareness to your thoughts and notice your surroundings and your mental state. Awareness can help you manage your travel stress – and keep you safe.
3. Do yoga as a form of meditation.
Although yoga isn’t a traditional part of meditation, adding yoga to your practice can be beneficial wherever you are. Yoga can also help you cope with any aches and pains you may feel from being on your feet all day and rushing from place to place. The best part? Many resorts, hotels, and vacation destinations offer yoga, so it is the perfect time to start.
4. Use positive imagery in your meditation.
Closing your eyes and picturing positive scenarios is great to do when travel is especially stressing you out. It’s also extremely easy to practice, no matter where in the world you are. All you need is a quiet place to sit, and you can immerse yourself in a pleasant world. You’ll have a positive attitude for the rest of your vacation!
You might not think of meditating when you travel, but meditating on vacation can help you cope with the stress of being away from home. The next time you travel, try adding these activities to your meditation practice – you’ll have a much happier vacation!
Featured Photo by Daniel Mingook Kim on Unsplash.