THERAPY MEANS MAKING TIME TO SEE THE WORLD AROUND YOU.
If you’re seeking a better value out of travel, besides entertainment, then you’re one step closer to leaving your comfort zone and transcending into an experience of travel meant for the soul.
What is it about going away that’s so compelling?
Is it the freedom we experience when setting aside our everyday responsibilities that uplifts us? Is it knowing that we can get away without pulling ourselves back into our everyday habits of checking Facebook, emails, and text messages? Why do we spend our hard-earned money on something that we can’t bring back home with us?
Because it’s therapy!
I believe we travel because we make good memories that last forever. We visit places we’ve never been; gathering about photographs and capturing memories that remind us of our journey.
St. Augustine said, ‘The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.’ A page?
That’s not fun.
When we experience other people, culture, and their adventures, it gives us a new perspective on life. Traveling is about self-discovery. When approached consciously, in that way, we discover we’re left with stories to tell, leaving behind memories that will last forever.
You are a spiritual being - an energy field expressing itself through human experiences, and the only constant in life is change. Leaving home allows you to experience the joy of being inspired. Traveling to a place you’ve never been involves directions, maps, and the guidance of others to point you in the right direction. This part of the quest makes for a great adventure, and brings about a tremendous return on your investment.
Taking the time to travel, reminds you that your whole life is merely a journey and meant for making memories.
Here’s what you can do to get the most out of your vacation:
Yelp it
Yelp can be used in several ways. You can use it to get recommendations on where to stay, places to eat, and events in the area. Yelp is an app designed to help you get the best advice from visitors who’ve reviewed business locations for you. In addition, you can talk to other “yelpers” and find out where the locals go. You can even take some time to catch a glimpse of the area you plan to visit from a bird’s-eye view. Yelp also hosts crowdsourcing. If there’s a restaurant you need a reservation for, the app’s “seat-me” service will handle all the arrangements.
Try something new
You probably thing going to a new place means you’ll try new things. But, the truth is that we usually stick to our normal routines. While vacationing, make yourself step outside of the box and do something you’ve never done before. Research what the area has to offer; skydiving, salsa dancing, or even riding a segway! Being able to do new things focuses your mind somewhere else, so you’re not worried with what’s happening back at home.
Be flexible
Everyone is different so making sure you all understand what each other wants to do is important. But sometimes, regardless of how suitable you are for each other, there will be that moment when someone wants to do something the other doesn’t. I have learned that the secret to being content means adapting. So, the key to getting along with others requires, sometimes you need to bend. If one of you suggest doing something unexpected, you may need to take one for the team, but don’t hate this because you might find you love it.
Take a Leap of Faith
There are many things to gain from traveling; new friends, new stories, and a new culture. But being scared of the unknown is not the way to go. They key to engaging yourself in the experience is trusting those around you. Someone who immerses himself in the local environment is much more likely to get a greater boost from traveling then someone who is afraid to interact with others -- Don’t be afraid to speak with the locals. The key to making the most of your trip, is knowing God works in every interaction with other people. If you need help or advice, look to those around you, and they will guide your way.
Keep a Journal
Keeping a journal can seem like a chore. And, it’s hard work. But if you keep one, you’ll have everything you need to remember your trip when you get home. Writing regularly is therapeutic and allows you to start the day with appreciation. Journaling your trip while you’re in a particular place mean you’ll get to look back in five or ten years -- or in old age -- and remember all you did. Writing makes you feel good. All it takes in 10 minutes a day.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Also known as “celebrity hairstylist StacyK,” the 26-year veteran in the beauty business has authored two books: “Be Beautiful Being You”and “The Ten Character Commitments.” She is a part of the Women’s Leadership Movement, Toyota's “Women That Soar” Community Outreach recipient, and one of the 100 World Changers recently selected for her intent on moving the world forward with her new branding concept created for sexual abuse survivors. Stacy is the founder of The Justus Love Corporation. It is an American multimedia company helping those on a mission to stop sexual abuse by sharing their story, and exposing sexual abuse suppression. The corporation unites “informative, inspirational individuals” with lifestyle and leadership goals. Its philosophy remains: “Our Words Give Life!”