GREENVILLE, SC (WSPA) – The Thanksgiving holiday brings some of the busiest travel days of the year.
Some health experts say that traveling can have great benefits for your health.
A nurse practitioner explains how, on this week’s “Ask the Expert” in partnership with Good Help Saint Francis.
“Traveling is definitely good for your brain”
Karen Cooper, nurse practitioner, Bon Secours Saint Francis
Whether you’re going by train, plane or car, time away from home, according to nurse practitioner Karen Cooper, has its benefits.
“Your brain is actually pushed out of its comfort zone. And that’s how traveling is good for your brain. It’s growing. Additionally, I just want to mention that travel has been shown in numerous studies to increase productivity, creativity and overall life satisfaction,” Cooper said.
Cooper says you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the benefits.
She said: “Research has shown that, whether short or long term, whether it’s a holiday or a staycation, the benefits for our mental health are numerous. So no matter what happens, whether it’s a three-day weekend, as you said, or an extended three-week international trip, it’s been shown that a decrease Stress levels, increased productivity once returning to work, and an overall increase in life satisfaction occur with everyone. »
When considering a getaway, Cooper recommends considering these things to make it an enjoyable, stress-free experience.
She says: “Always allow more time when you travel, much more than you think you need.” Cooper goes on to say, “Secondly, one thing that is recommended is to bring something with you when you travel. It brings you a kind of relaxation, happiness and joy. Maybe it’s your favorite book that you’ve been meaning to read. Maybe this is the podcast you really want to hear. Finally, she recommends that you “drink lots of water.” Be careful of too much alcohol and caffeine.
If you don’t have the time to take time off work or the financial means to go traveling right now, Cooper recommends trying something new to break out of your daily routine.
“Some people will take a different route to work. Other people will listen to a different type of music or podcast, sit elsewhere for lunch, or go elsewhere for lunch. Take up a new hobby on the weekend. They’ll make it a point to do something completely different than what they usually do,” Cooper said.
Cooper says if you can unplug from your electronics when you travel or try something new, then do it. She says you’ll reap the most benefits when you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without distractions.
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