Treat Yourself: Travel to These Places After Recovering from Depression
Traveling doesn’t cure depression. But it helps improve your mental health by reducing your stress and anxiety. Hence, traveling is a good way to reward yourself after completing your therapy and medication.
Yes, it’s essential to receive proper treatment for your depression. While “escapes” and other exhilarating activities can raise your energy and boost your mood, they won’t provide a long-term solution, unlike actual treatment. Though you can travel while recovering, you’d have more fun if you travel after completing your treatment. That way, you can leave the ordeal behind you, and see a clearer path to moving forward and finding happiness.
That said, here are the travel destinations you should consider after healing from your depression:
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts
If the sea calms your mind and engages your senses, the beaches of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, will enhance the effects of your recovery. It’s best to visit here during summer. But the place is just as beautiful during the off-seasons too, not to mention cheaper.
You can also find resorts in Cape Cod that offer wellness packages. The activities range from yoga to nature walks to cooking classes. Check those out if you need a new hobby that can potentially change your life.
- Maui, Hawaii
Of course, beach-lovers will never get enough of beaches. In Maui, Hawaii, you can snorkel with sea turtles, hike volcanic craters, and go on canoe trips. If your idea of wellness is a thrilling adventure, Maui is the place for you.
Even if you haven’t tried any outdoor adventures yet, traveling to Maui can still boost your renewed happiness. Doing the unfamiliar allows you to re-evaluate your life and realize life’s many possibilities. So get on that paddleboard, or do yoga out in the open, with the sea and the sun as your backdrops. The experience will be liberating and unforgettable.
- Alaska
Alaska may be too intense in the dead of winter, so schedule your trip here during the spring or summer. All-inclusive trips to Alaska will let you see the state’s many natural wonders, such as the massive glaciers, lush rainforests, jaw-dropping cliffs, and stunning waters. And the best part is, you’re going to view them from a charter seaplane. If you’re afraid of heights, conquer that fear by boarding on that plane.
Other places worth seeing in Alaska include the Glacier Bay Natural Park, Denali Natural Park and Preserve, Arctic Coast, and Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. If you love nature, you’ll never want to leave Alaska. Consider at least a week’s worth of stay here, because exploring the world, especially new places, improves your creativity and rests your brain at the same time. By the time you return home and come back to reality, you’ll feel much more inspired and productive.
- Queenstown, New Zealand
Any place in New Zealand is amazing for your mental health. The country, after all, is most known for its breathtaking views and peaceful environment. But if you’re seeking a mindfulness retreat, in particular, Queenstown has a place for you. It’s called Aro Ha, a wellness resort that treats you to a panoramic view of Lake Wakatipu. They offer classes in yoga, strength training, and cooking.
If your body needs pampering, Aro Ha also offers massage and spa therapy. And if you want to try going vegetarian for a day or two, you won’t have a hard time choosing your meals because Aro Ha’s menu is all vegetarian. Hence, expect to go home not just with a healthier mind, but with a healthier gut, too.
- Kyoto, Japan
Reward yourself to a rich cultural experience by going to Kyoto, Japan. The place preserves its historical and religious landmarks such as the shrines and temples. They also offer a nature trip, specifically in Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It’s a vast garden with a long, narrow path flanked by towering bamboo trees.
Kyoto is believed to be the birthplace of a Japanese wellness ritual called “forest bathing”. So if you want a trip that doesn’t involve a packed schedule and a long list of activities, book a flight to Kyoto. Its natural wonders will relieve your stress and let you restore your physical health, which might’ve been affected by your depression and treatment.
- Napa, California
If you’ve taken medications for your depression, you’re probably missing the taste of wine, since you were prohibited from drinking alcohol during your recovery. When you’re fully confident that you can drink again without having a relapse, explore Napa Valley’s organic wineries and allow yourself a sip or two. That’s one of the best rewards you can give yourself for overcoming your ordeal.
Keep in mind that while organizing your trip, take things easy and get help if you need to. Traveling can also be stressful, which may trigger your symptoms if you’re still vulnerable. So try to focus on your travel’s rewards instead of its umpteen requirements.
