Discover a collection of stories from our authorities on the Longevity Lifestyle, created by ROAR Forward, a collaborative of longevity thought leaders and content creators.
It’s easy to experience travel fatigue when vacationing at the same place over and over again. “Vacationing in a new place stimulates the senses, challenges our perspectives, and promotes personal growth,” says Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT, founder of Body to Soul Health. “Anytime we try something new, we discover passions and interests that will enrich our lives long after we’re home.”
With so much attention placed on physical fitness and mental health, it’s no surprise there’s a growing emphasis on vacations that prioritize self-care. “Instead of indulging in passive relaxation, many travelers are seeking trips that nourish the mind, body and spirit, while providing long-term benefits,” notes Bianchini. Ahead, experts share 9 healthy travel ideas for your next getaway.
1. Consider Voluntourism
Voluntourism combines travel with volunteer work, adding a sense of purpose and fulfillment to a trip. Instead of just sightseeing, you’re immersing yourself in meaningful work, such as community outreach, environmental conservation and wildlife protection. “Volunteering has both mental and physical benefits—it helps reduce stress, lower cortisol levels and activates the parasympathetic nervous system which promotes relaxation and balance,” says Bianchini. “In addition, it encourages feel good vibes and social connections, which can help lessen loneliness and improve long-term health.”
2. Learn a New Skill or Sport
A skilled-based vacation allows travelers to immerse themselves in a new craft or activity, such as culinary arts, photography, dance or a new language. “Artistic activities can also reduce stress and increase mindfulness,” says Bianchini. A sports-focused vacation such as surfing, skiing, pickleball, golf and scuba diving revolve around physical activity, which can enhance cardiovascular and muscular health, coordination, brain function and mental resilience.
“Learning a new skill or sport pushes us to grow and step outside of our normal boundaries while fostering social connections,” says Dr. Terika L. Haynes, CEO and founder of Dynamite Travel.
3. Take a Break from Technology
A digital detox helps you reconnect with people and surroundings without the distraction of mindless strolling, email notifications and social media updates. Today, resorts and spas put limitations on technology use and for good reason. “Being constantly plugged in fuels anxiety, disrupts sleep, and puts stress on our brains and eyes,” says Bianchini. “Taking a rest from hyperconnectivity can relax your mind and allow you to become more present, resulting in deeper connections with those around you and positively affecting your mental and physical health.”
4. Book a Nature-Based Getaway
A nature Rx vacation focuses on the outdoors and connecting with the natural world. They can include hiking, swimming and walking in nature, which supports cardiovascular health, mobility and strength. “Peaceful landscapes, sunshine, fresh air and healing waters are examples of natural Rx factors,” says Dr. Haynes.
Studies show spending time in nature boosts dopamine and serotonin levels along with immune function. Doing so can also reduce anxiety and improve mood. “Breathing in phytoncides—natural compounds released by trees—enhances white blood cell activity and boosts immunity, while fresh air and natural light helps to regulate sleep, improves energy and mood and enhances our overall longevity,” says Bianchini.
5. Indulge in a Healthy Food Retreat
Food retreats emphasize healthy nutrition and mindful eating. They may include cooking workshops featuring nutrient-rich and anti-inflammatory foods that can help improve gut health and decrease inflammation. On these journeys, travelers learn how to reduce overall risk for chronic disease while being introduced to new culinary experiences and flavors they can continue to enjoy at home.
“Healthy food retreats also encourage guests to practice mindful eating—learning how to savor meals, listen to hunger cues, and turn mealtime into a sensory experience,” notes Bianchini. “Research shows mindful eating helps with making healthier food choices.”
6. Experience a New Culture
Immersing yourself in a new culture means fully engaging in that culture. “Instead of watching and observing, guests participate in hands-on traditions such as cooking, crafts and language lessons, to fully embrace local traditions, history and daily life,” says Bianchini. “This type of vacation is known to increase joy, satisfaction and emotional well-being while improving social connections and providing a sense of belonging,” says Bianchini. “Learning new traditions also stimulates the brain and promotes increased cognitive health.”
7. Visit a Spa Whose Focus Is on Longevity
Longevity-focused spa vacations address the root causes of aging and disease, while helping individuals improve their quality of life. “These spas offer DNA testing, gut microbiome analysis and bioimpedance assessments, along with fully customized wellness strategies aimed at boosting physical and mental performance, brain function and metabolic efficiency,” says Bianchini. Spa menus can also include biomarker and genetic testing, infrared sauna, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy and fasting protocols that boost detoxification. “To promote anti-aging benefits, some feature hyperbaric oxygen therapy and stem cell therapy,” says Bianchini.
8. Sign Up for a Yoga Retreat
A yoga retreat focuses on the mind-body connection through movement, breathwork and meditation. They usually take place in tranquil, nature-immersed locations and offer up a mix of yoga classes, guided mindfulness sessions and holistic healing practices. “Yoga enhances flexibility, strength and balance and can help reduce stress and anxiety. It also improves sleep quality and circulation, while enhancing digestion, mental clarity and emotional well-being,” says Bianchini.
9. Spend Time Alone
A solo vacation offers a unique opportunity to develop resilience and self-confidence. “Alone time gives you full autonomy to explore at your own pace while pushing you out of your comfort zone,” says Bianchini. “It can strengthen the mind-body connection and provide time for personal reflection and intentional goal setting. Solo travel also enhances social connections by encouraging interactions with new people, contributing to overall health.” Many spas and cruise lines offer packages for single occupants.
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