Recently updated on August 14th, 2023 at 11:53 am
Whether you’re on the road or in the air, it’s easy to introduce a little zen into your journey. In fact, practicing mindfulness will only enhance the travelling experience, leading to a happier, more serene trip. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be recharging en route in no time, and having a more harmonious holiday when you arrive.
Reclaim Your Space
You’re on an airplane or coach so let’s face it, you have an abundance of time. All you need is 15 minutes to zone out and settle the chatter in your mind. Sit back in your seat, plug in your favourite tunes, meditation tape or mindfulness app, and close your eyes. Focus on your breathing, inhaling and exhaling slowly. If you’ve got less than quiet co-travellers, some noise cancelling headphones will do the trick.
Detox Digitally at your Destination
Tempting as it is to fire up that smartphone and share your destination across social media the minute you arrive, that all-important status update means you’re going to be glued to your phone, checking responses. Erasing mental clutter is one thing, but escaping our digital addictions is key, too. Limit your smartphone time, putting your energy into appreciating and exploring where you are and meeting new people on your travels.
Free Your Senses
Travel with your senses, consciously absorbing the sights, sounds, and smells of where you are. Consider the vibrant aromas as you walk through a Moroccan spice market, feel the smoothness of beach pebbles under your feet and savour the taste of fresh seafood as you dine in a Mykonos seafront taverna. Mindful use of the senses will quickly bring you more in tune with your surroundings.
Paint a Mental Picture
Whenever you can, close your eyes and visualise a mental picture of a calming scene to put you in a relaxed headspace. It could be the tranquil sandy beach you’re sat on, a hammock gently swaying in a peaceful forest or a meadow of wildflowers. Be present, imagine you’re there and drift off, if only for five minutes at a time. Don’t worry if your mind wanders, just return to visualising that calming place.
Dear Diary
Journals may seem like an archaic throwback in these technology-centric times, but keeping a written record of your experiences can transport you back to special moments long after you return home from your holiday. By consciously writing down what you see, eat and visit, you’re helping commit your travels to memory. You may find it easier to remember smaller details, like how the sun glistened on the waves on the horizon, or the smile of the gentleman who gave you directions.
Just Be
When you have some time to yourself, find a spot where you can just sit and watch the world go by. Whether it’s people watching in a city square or sitting quietly atop a hillside on your own, make time to soak up the ambience of your destination.
When you head off on your next Trafalgar trip be sure to bear these tips in mind to become a mindful traveller.
Image Credits: Lead image © iStock/stockstudiox. Woman on plane © iStock/miljko. Beach phone © iStock/KristinaJovanovic. Beach prints © iStock/friendwithlove. Hammock © iStock/Boogich.  Bench © iStock/maroznc.