The Happiness Behind Traveling

Traveling is more than escaping your responsibilities and leaving behind your day to day life; it has been shown to improve mood, raise serotonin levels, and give life some more excitement! Whether it's the excitement before getting to the airport, the joy of trying that restaurant you’ve had on your bucket list, or even the pride of conquering a foreign metro system, there is no doubt traveling can open us up to amazing experiences. Beyond the little joys travel makes us feel, science has shown it has positive, long lasting effects on our mental health. Here's how immersing yourself in a new place filled with new experiences can significantly increase the happiness in your life.

The Excitement of Anticipation

Whether you're traveling to a country where you don't speak the language, getting lost in through new streets, or trying a food you really have no idea how to pronounce, there's something thrilling about stepping out of your routine and jumping into the unknown. Dopamine is released in excess when you travel because the brain thrives on change and anticipation. Every new experience, no matter how big or small, excites you and keeps your mind active in a way that regular activities don't.

Slowing it Down

It can get easy to get lost in the day with all your responsibilities ahead of you, but traveling offers us an opportunity to slow down and take in the moment! Whether it’s sitting beach side at a resort in Bermuda or sipping your coffee at a bench by the Eiffel Tower, traveling brings us a sense of mindfulness and a chance to stop and slow down. Not only do you feel less stressed, but it can lower your cortisol levels and allow your serotonin to shine. While your agenda might be packed with new things to see and try, don’t forget to be present in every place and enjoy the environment around you!

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

A lot of times when we travel we are being pushed out of our comfort zones - in the most exciting way! Whether it’s asking a local for help with directions, trying a new food you never thought you would, or even just leaving behind your daily routine, these small challenges can boost your confidence and make you feel more resilient. Every time you try a new experience or learn something new, your brain releases endorphins which naturally bring you more happiness and euphoria - a similar feeling to “runner’s high.” The more you let yourself step out of your comfort zone, the more you realize what you can achieve and the amazing possibilities available.

Shared Experiences

Some of the exciting parts of traveling are who you are going with or the people you meet along the way! Whether it’s bonding with the lady at hotel check-in, learning some of the local’s favorite foods, or sharing a laugh with someone on the street, human connection is a natural way to boost your brain’s level of serotonin. Even if you’re traveling alone, there’s always an opportunity to meet new people and learn something new!

Just because the trip is over doesn’t mean that happiness is too. Looking back at the memories you made and sharing your different stories and photos can bring back that same serotonin and dopamine rush as it did when you were traveling. So the next time you feel a little guilty for not finishing that homework assignment before you got to the airport, remember that traveling still offers you a chance to challenge your brain and make memories that you wish you were still living while you finish that homework assignment after the trip!

We’d love to hear about your greatest travel experiences! Share with us @theedgemag on Instagram!