If you have ever been to a different country and have made friends with people from all over the world, then you know that traveling can be a great way to grow mentally. In fact, you may even feel that you learn more about yourself while on vacation than you would have otherwise. You will meet a lot of wonderful people and you will get a chance to study history and different cultures. This is a good thing for your mental health and it will help you to overcome anxiety and depression.
Moving your body reduces anxiety and depression
One of the best ways to relieve stress and increase mental health is to get moving. It’s no secret that movement can lead to improved physical and mental well-being, but the latest studies suggest it can also reduce your anxiety and depression. The brain is a master controller for body movement, and regular exercise can improve the well-being of an anxious or depressed individual.
It’s no surprise that a study of tens of thousands of adults over the course of a year found that the best coping mechanism for anxiety and depression was actually physical activity. This can include tasks as mundane as sweeping the floor to more elaborate exercises, such as running or dancing.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for at least one hour of activity each day. This can be anything from a stroll to a long bike ride. You can also incorporate more complicated activities into your routine, such as a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
Adapting to different cultures
There is much to learn from acculturating to another culture while travelling. For starters, the new experience will force you to grow as a person. You may even have to learn to accept the differences and differences of others.
It’s also a good idea to make use of local culture brokers. A native of the country you are visiting can help you navigate through the minefield of unfamiliar rules, norms, and language. They will provide you with advice on how to deal with cultural idiosyncrasies, and will be a great source of support when you need it.
You should also be aware of the “reverse” culture shock. This happens when you return to your home country after a period of studying abroad, and you experience an adjustment period. It’s not uncommon to experience mild irritations or a temporary dissatisfaction. You can remedy these by making sure you get plenty of rest, exercise, and a healthy diet.
Studying history
Despite the common belief that studying history is boring, it can be very rewarding. Learning about the past can improve your ability to think critically and to understand the world around you.
History can give you a rich understanding of the human experience. You can learn about the civil rights movement, the Great Depression, or the 1918 flu pandemic. You can also learn about the ancestors of your family. This knowledge helps you to develop a sense of your own identity. You may feel like you could do more to improve the world if you had a better understanding of the past.
You will also be able to apply your knowledge to your own daily life. By examining the way people in the past behaved, you will be able to recognize challenges in today’s world. You will also be able to use your knowledge of the past to build a stronger moral compass.
