The pandemic may not be over, but there are no more restrictions to prevent you from planning leisure travel. If you're a globe-trotter, this may be good news for you because planning a new adventure can benefit your mental health. Psychologists promote the mental benefits of traveling somewhere new. A survey from 2013 revealed that people associate travel with enhanced focus, energy, attention, and empathy. Studies also show that the act of discovering a foreign culture nurtures creativity. 

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What do scientists say about traveling?

Planning a trip is as enjoyable as visiting an exotic destination. Cornell University released a study that states that the anticipation of leaving home for a new place can increase people's happiness substantially, much more than the anticipation of going on a shopping spree. People are the happiest when they plan a vacation, and the moment for leaving their houses is getting close. The same studies point out that the benefits come from the enthusiasm of visiting new places and connecting with other people. Travelers talk to more people during vacations because they want to immerse themselves into the local culture and get in touch with people who call the places their visit home. Experienced also make a better story material than possessions, so this can also be considered as a reason why people can improve their mental health when planning a trip. 

Health benefits people get from vacationing on a beach destination

Whether dipping the toes into the clear blue water of the ocean, swimming in the soothing waves of the sea, or sitting aside the expanses of serene water, a trip to the beach can be a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience. Don't be surprised that experts think spending time near the water is beneficial for the body and brain. 

Benefits for the mind

People don't even have to get into the water to enjoy the health benefits of being in its vicinity. Studies reveal that the people who live or spend long periods near the coast have better physical and mental health because the sound of waves causes a state of serenity. However, if you happen to be a fan of water sports and swimming, a trip to Turks and Caicos that allows you to explore the azure waters at the board of a yacht charter will enable you to improve depression symptoms and boost concentration and depression. You can have numerous health benefits if you spend time near the water. Wallace J. Nichols Ph.D. dedicated one of his books to the benefits you can get if you're spending time at the seaside. It looks like the experience can make you healthier, happier, and more connected. The health benefits enumerated in the book include decreased anxiety and stress, increased feelings of serenity, improved mood, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. 

Benefits for the body

Everyone who swam at least once in their life in the water of the ocean can remember the indescribable feeling they had when they stepped out and felt the hot sand under their toes, as the wind chilled the salty water lingering on their skin. Science backs this effect. Health experts state that a dip in the ocean or sea supports deep physical healing because the water contains multiple minerals and vitamins that improve health. Magnesium (one of the minerals) is vital for human health because it lowers blood pressure, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can improve mood. Repeated soaks in the water can also improve skin health.

Swimming in the ocean can improve blood circulation because it improves the oxygen and nutrients delivery to the essential organs, relieves muscle tension, and improves arthritis and muscle pain. Dipping in the cool water of the sea boosts the body's resistance to health issues. 

For the individuals who don't like to swim, only spending time on the beach can prove beneficial for physical health because the activity supports healthier breathing thanks to the marine plants that produce oxygen. Also, bathing in the sun delivers vitamin D that encourages weight loss and fights physical and mental health issues. 

Tips to boost your health during vacation

Before the pandemic, travelers were worried about illness and made sure they did their best to prevent health issues. 

Supporting your immune system is essential if you want to be healthy and strong during your exotic trip. A robust immune system is key to shielding yourself from diseases. If the time for a new vacation is just around the corner, here are some recommendations on boosting your immune system during the trip. 

Hydrate – hydrate is the secret to keep your immune system healthy because it's highly dependant on the nutrients present in your bloodstream. When you don't hydrate, you lose the nutrients from your body, and your bloodstream fails to transport the vitamins and minerals to your organs. Hydration is also essential for preventing headaches, digestive problems, muscle tension, and encouraging detoxification. 

Don't drink alcohol while flying by plane – your body reacts differently when you drink alcohol in the air than when you do it on the ground because the air pressure is lower and affects your body's ability to absorb oxygen—also drinking. At the same time, flying can dehydrate you faster because the airplane's air is quite dry. 

Exercise – only because you're on vacation, it doesn't mean you should pause your exercising. You don't need gym equipment to work out and keep your body fit. You can exercise outdoors, and not only that you'll keep your body strong, but you'll also have the opportunity to explore the destination you visit, soak into the sun, and breathe fresh air. Ask the local to recommend to you what the best walking and running trails are. 

Your body may feel tired after a vacation, but the long-term benefits of having a vacation are worth the effort. 

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