Wander and Wonder: The Science-Backed Benefits of Travel
I’m just back from our week-long trip to Berlin, and while the jet lag is still hanging on a bit (it’s amazing how much you can get done at 3:00 a.m. because your body thinks it’s 10:00 a.m.), the memories we made are more than worth it!
There’s something truly magical about stepping away from the daily grind and immersing yourself in a new place. Whether it was learning about Berlin’s rich and complicated history, wandering the streets of Wittenberg, or soaking in the vibrant culture (and lots of authentic Berlin/German food), the experience was a powerful reminder of just how good travel can be for our well-being—especially for those of us navigating the high-stress world of law.
My husband and I at a chunk of the Berlin Wall
Why Travel is Good for the Soul (and the Mind)
Travel isn’t just about seeing new sights; it’s about recharging your mind and spirit. And the best part? Science backs it up! Here are some of the ways travel can boost your well-being:
Stress-Busting: We all know how intense the legal profession can be. Travel gives us a much-needed break from the usual pressures. Research shows that taking a vacation can lower stress levels and lift your mood by reducing cortisol, the stress hormone. It’s like hitting the reset button for your brain.
Creativity Boost: When you’re surrounded by new experiences and cultures, your brain starts firing in different ways. Studies have found that this kind of exposure can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills—exactly what we need when tackling complex legal challenges and tasks.
Mental Health Perks: Getting away from it all has been linked to reduced anxiety and depression. Just the act of exploring somewhere new can bring a sense of joy and fulfillment, which is so important for maintaining good mental health.
Building Stronger Bonds: Traveling with family, friends, or even colleagues creates shared experiences that bring you closer together. Those memories, like the ones I made in Berlin, are the glue that strengthens relationships.
Growing Emotional Intelligence: Navigating new cultures and environments challenges us to be more adaptable, patient, and understanding. These experiences naturally build emotional intelligence, making us better communicators and more empathetic—key skills for any lawyer or legal professional.
Anticipation Equals Happiness: Research shows that having something fun to look forward to, like a vacation or even a weekend getaway, can boost your mood and overall happiness. The anticipation itself brings joy and serves as a mental escape from daily stress. It’s like having a light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far away that light may be. We’ve been planning this trip for over a year, and it was something exciting to look forward to that entire time.
Memories that Last: The happiness we gain from experiences often outweighs the fleeting joy of material possessions. Studies suggest that investments in experiences—like travel—bring more sustained happiness than buying things. The memories from these experiences, like those I made with my family in Germany, continue to bring joy long after the trip is over. (Now I just need to sort through the hundreds of pictures we took!)
Bringing the Benefits of Travel into Your Life
But let’s be real—sometimes, an international trip isn’t in the cards. That doesn’t mean you can’t reap the benefits of travel. Here are a few ways to bring that sense of adventure and well-being into your life, even when you’re staying close to home:
Micro-Adventures: Short trips or weekend getaways can do wonders for your well-being. Explore a nearby town, hike a new trail, or just take a drive with no set destination. It’s amazing how even a small change of scenery can recharge your batteries.
Cultural Experiences at Home: Dive into different cultures without leaving your city. Visit a local museum, try a new cuisine, or attend a cultural festival. You can even bring a bit of Berlin home by cooking up some German dishes—sausage and sauerkraut, anyone? (We tried to bring pretzels home - second-day soft pretzels are just not the same.)
Mindful Exploration: Whether you’re traveling or just out for a walk in your neighborhood, try to be fully present. Notice the details, the sounds, the smells. This kind of mindful exploration can help you unwind and truly enjoy the moment by giving your brain a short, but much-needed, break.
Create a Staycation: If travel isn’t on the agenda, plan a staycation. Pick a theme—like a city or country—and immerse yourself in its culture for a day or weekend. Watch movies, listen to music, and cook dishes from that place. It’s a fun, relaxing way to experience the world from your own home.
Plan Ahead: Even if a big trip is a way off, start planning now. Having something to look forward to can boost your mood and keep you motivated. Whether it’s a weekend away or a dream trip, the anticipation is half the fun!
Let’s Keep Exploring
Travel has this incredible ability to refresh and renew us in ways that are hard to replicate.
Whether you’re planning your next big adventure or just finding new ways to experience the world around you, I encourage you to embrace that sense of exploration.
The benefits to your well-being - and your legal work - are undeniable.
So, where will your next adventure take you? I’d love to hear! Hit “reply” and let me know your favorite places to visit or what’s on your bucket list.
(And maybe take the first step by putting your next travel adventure on your calendar now. Get that positive travel anticipation started!)
Wishing you the best!
