Traveling by yourself can offer so many benefits, including self-growth, independence, and a fresh perspective. But it's also a fantastic remedy for heartbreak. (Ever read/seen Eat Pray Love?) When speaking with Elle Huerta, CEO and founder of personal breakup coach Mend, about breakup self-care tips, we discussed how solo travel can help in the process.
"I think travel is so healing after a breakup because you can get a change of scenery and really kind of reconnect with yourself and get alone time, which can be, I think, both scary, but also really rejuvenating," Elle told us.
Whether the trip is a success or not isn't dependent on where you go; it's if you actually utilized that period to slow down and check in with yourself. You won't be able to truly escape if you're so focused on the logistics of your travels, for example. Elle suggests taking a moment of your day to journal and self-reflect.
"If you just give yourself time to actually be still and not be engaged in some activity or in a conversation, I think that's when the really beautiful growth spurts happen when you're traveling," she said. "I think that's something we struggle with whether you're on a trip or whether you're at home; just finding that stillness in your day when you can really just turn inward. If you're mindful of it, I think, anywhere you go and any trip can be incredibly mending."
The phrase "the journey is more important than the destination" could not be any more fitting in this case. And we mean destination in the most literal terms. But if you do need some inspiration for where to escape, see seven of Elle and Mend's recommendations ahead!
- Ojai, California, US
North of Los Angeles is the spiritual center and small city of Ojai. "It's such a beautiful place to spend a weekend or a week," Elle told us. "So many beautiful hikes to go on and hot springs; there's a real sort of focus on nourishing your soul and taking care of your body as well, so I love Ojai."
2. Hauai, Hawaii, US
The gorgeous landscapes of Kauai are enough to help you relax, but it also doesn't hurt that it's not as touristy as the main island and Maui. It won't be difficult to enjoy time alone when you have nature and picturesque scenery surrounding you. Kauai also offers snorkeling, kayaking, and other activities that will boost your endorphins.
3. Hamburg, Germany
Comfort food, cool residents, and good beer can all be found in this northern port city. Even if you visit alone, you'll leave with plenty of new friends in your contacts. Hamburg is a great choice if you're not totally comfortable being alone on your travels.
4. Big Sur, California, US
Big Sur is home to Esalen Institute, one of Elle's favorite retreat centers that focuses on reconnecting with yourself. It's located along the Pacific Coast, offering breathtaking views. Its three- to five-day unstructured workshops feature healthy meals, daily yoga and movement classes, massages, and hot springs visits.
5. Bali, Indonesia
Straight out of Eat Pray Love, Bali is an incredible Indonesian island home to religious sites, white beaches, yoga retreats, and some of the lushest greenery. You'll be able to appreciate the present, find peace, and experience invaluable self-reflection here.
6. Athens, Greece
You'll be so immersed in the city's rich history and culture that you'll forget all about your breakup. Maybe not all about it, but being in Athens will definitely help. The museums, food, nightlife, and amiable people will make you never want to leave.
7. Staycation
You don't need to travel across the world for a change of scenery. Checking out a nearby city that's been on your list or taking a mini road trip will even do the trick. The key to feeling like you're somewhere else is breaking out of your comfort zone. Switch up your usual outfits, plan activities you normally wouldn't do — anything that will help you experience something new.
Source : Popsugar.com by Nicole Yi
