Why Solo Trips are Essential for Mental & Physical Wellness

Get out of town

I learned that traveling alone has become an essential for me. When it comes to traveling by yourself, many people get worked up and stress about going somewhere new, and all of the bad things that could possibly happen because you’re in a place that is unfamiliar and anything could occur. News flash — nine times out of ten, NOTHING HAPPENS. Take the risk! In my opinion, this is just counterproductive thinking that could be holding one back from experiencing great things in solitude.

If his pattern of thought is negative, he will think many negative thoughts during the day.

-Norman Vincent Peale

Personal Travel Experiences

The first trip I took by myself was to New York in early February of this year. I got used to flying alone because I go back and forth between Charlotte and California, but as far as self vacations — this has all been a new for me. I made a whole Itinerary for my trip to New York for that weekend, so I had an idea of what I wanted to do already and the areas I wanted to see. When I was moving around the city by myself, I noticed that I was more likely to engage with people I didn’t know, like in local coffee shops, the corner stores, and bodegas. The next trip I took by myself was to Asheville, North Carolina. I rented a cozy Airbnb in the mountains so I can practice solitude since I had a few days off of work. This experience was different from New York because we’re in quarantine, so I have no choice but to be inside. For some reason, this still felt better than looking at the same four walls in my house. However, I still enjoyed myself because I got the chance to disconnect and just do the things I love.

Tips

Some tips I’d give to someone who has never traveled alone:

• Do proper research and read the reviews for the place you decide to stay just to assure you that you’re in a safe space
• Make sure a family member has your location or knows your whereabouts.
• Don’t be afraid to venture out, do something new, or talk to locals.
• If you’re not into creating itinerary’s, have somewhat of a general idea of what you want to do before you get there.

Opportunity for Growth

Although, I haven’t been to many places by myself, these experiences have helped me learn a lot about myself when I began to feel uncertain or stuck about where I want to be, or who I am/have grown to be. When spending time away, you get to think about everything you desire in your life. This will help with realigning goals, crossing things off your lists, and regaining your sense of identity. I definitely plan on traveling more, but this is just a start to my journey. Solo travel gives you an opportunity to listen to your gut and control which direction you want to go. This also creates a time where you get to reflect on who you are and the decisions you’ve made/want to make. Spending even a minimal time in solitude will allow you to embark on an inward journey on self-discovery. Finding your own rhythm is key for many aspects in life and traveling solo is a great place to start.

…Because if you don’t know where you’ve been, how will you ever know where you are going?

-Charlotte R. Dixon

Self Fulfillment & Confidence

The main reason this has become another form of happiness for me is because of the way it builds your confidence. The way you are able to take risks and have faith in your own resourcefulness is very refreshing. At first, it may feel a little uneasy considering you’ll be alone, but once you gain the confidence and comfortability, you enjoy yourself much more.

My goal for this article is to encourage everyone to get out of their comfort zone from time to time. Returning from a solo trip can make you feel much more calm and grounded in knowing who you are. Live a little.

Always,

Sunny