“We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.”
~ T.S Eliot
Most travelers at some point find the experience of travel to be therapeutic, but this is rarely a conscious discovery. Usually this therapeutic effect is seen as something extra that just ‘happens’ and is unintentional. Why do people travel then, to discover other people and places or to discover themselves? Perhaps subconsciously we understand that travel is a form of soul therapy that provides the possibility of self-learning, discovery and spiritual transformation. Although travel may seem trivial and like just a bit of fun for some, when done correctly – at its deepest level, it can psychologically educate. With the right intentions travel can play a huge role in helping people grow into better versions of their normal selves.
A Meaningful Step
The essence of travel changes; it requires that leap of faith and a giant step away from comfort zones. When that step is taken intentionally, it can set in motion a journey of personal transformation and revelation which will result in a life of meaning and purpose. By leaving behind your comfort zone you encourage transformation and the transcendence of individual consciousness. Many people fear to step out of their comfort zones and this makes living on auto-pilot acceptable to them. They suppress this inner quest we all have to find meaning in life, all in the name of familiarity. There is no possible way to get what you want in life by remaining the same as you have always been. In order to change your life, you have to change yourself and travel can be the therapeutic catalyst for this change.
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Choose the Experience You Truly Need
The experience of travel is powerful; it can correct imbalances within our individual natures and help reveal our full potential. Choose the experience that calls to you, even if the idea of it scares you a little. This is how you know that it is the experience that you really need.
Soulful Travels
Over the next few weeks, I will be taking my own advice. I will be traveling with intention and be engaging in some much-needed soul therapy. This means that I will not be as active on this blog as usual, but there is a lot to look forward to. Look out for the first two guest posts to be featured on Holistic Mind, Body & Soul. I really hope you enjoy Christine and Teresa’s posts, both ladies are super talented and have so much to share, so make sure to follow and support them!
I have arranged some wonderful collaborations with hotels, tourism boards, and museums, so you can expect many interesting reviews in September. In the meantime, follow along with my mindful and conscious adventures (including an epic music festival) via Instagram… You can connect with me @daniella_oursoulfultravels and #oursoulfultravels.
So true, travel is so therapeutic to me and I wish I could do more of it. The only thing I struggle with is when I come back home. It feels like I have to go and travel more or there is certain feel of almost depression looming over. Maybe because traveling is so good for you and addicting at the same time…?
Anya, I struggle with exactly the same feelings. In fact we got back from Europe a few days ago and I’m finding it hard to adjust to being back. I believe that travel can be addicting (but maybe a healthier addiction than the rest?). If you don’t have another big holiday planned, you need to find something else to look forward to. Perhaps plan a short weekend break to somewhere fun close by or explore your own country, you never know what you might discover and it will help you overcome that post-vacation depression.
Travel is amazing for the soul! Great blog post!
I loved this read! I completely support the idea of traveling with intention (and living with intention). Thanks, Daniella!
I’m glad you enjoyed it Emma!
Sounds amazing. I find few things as exhilarating as a good live music show, and I am sure an epic music festival will do your soul wonders. Hope it’s all fantastic.
Thank you, it was really wonderful… one of the best experiences ever!!
You are right, traveling can be so enriching on a deeper level. To me, it includes simply going on a hike close to home.
PS: I thought the Schoeman sounded very South African! I am a South African De Beer, now living in Austria. My blog is http://www.traveltyrol.com if you would like to take a look.
Thanks Linda, its always great to connect with other South African bloggers (even those living abroad 🙂 . I seem to find South Africans everywhere in my travels, this time in Amsterdam – I just listen for that distinct accent or the sound of Afrikaans. I hope you are enjoying Austria? Will definitely be checking out your blog, thanks for sharing!
I really like this blog post! A few years ago my husband and I decided to travel more no matter the cost and it’s so great to experience new things!
Thanks Jessica! My husband and I decided the same thing after going on our honeymoon to Zanzibar last year and it has been a great decision!
what an amazing post! Thank you for sharing x
Well done!
Enjoyed reading this post.
Thank you so much!