Escaping the daily grind is a welcome respite. It’s no wonder UK residents are prioritising wellness hacks and holidays that proactively restore their sense of self. The biggest dilemma is choosing the best trip for you.
Calmcations might be on the rise, but all too many people overlook the best therapy of all; movement. Exercise is a one-way ticket to a dopamine boost — and who doesn’t want a happy hormone on their holiday? There’s more to it, though. Here’s why active holidays are the ultimate wellness hack.
1. Physical health benefits: beyond the gym
Active holidays incorporate physical activity while introducing you to novel new places and immersing you in new cultures. What’s not to love? Hiking, yoga, swimming, or cycling holidays are just a few of the trips you could plan as a couple or family.
Benefit from the mental stimulation of a new destination and leave with physical benefits like increased cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. Why stick to the same old gym when you can harness similar benefits through travel?
2. Mental well-being: nature’s therapeutic effects
Nature is massively beneficial for mental health. An active holiday is the perfect opportunity to embrace nature’s therapeutic effects.
It boils down to green exercise, which is simply an activity enjoyed outdoors. Anything like cycling, hiking, or even horse riding ticks that box. The combination of nature and exercise can reduce anxiety and stress while lifting your overall mood. You’d be surprised how rejuvenated you feel.
3. Strengthening family bonds through shared activities
As a family, active holidays don’t just provide an outlet for all that stored-up toddler, pre-teen, or teenage emotion (or energy). Shared activities are perfect for reconnecting as a family unit — fostering communication, building memories, and enhancing teamwork.
Adapt activity choices to reflect all the family’s interests. It could be high ropes courses, bikes, picnics, horse riding treks, or camping excursions.
4. Educational experiences: learning through adventure
Have you heard of the “world school” concept? Learning through adventure isn’t just a novelty reserved for adults. Active holidays allow families to develop new skills, like horse riding, sailing, skiing, or rock climbing.
There are plenty of “traditional” lessons to be found outdoors, too, like counting, communicating, and comprehending complex instructions. It’s a chance for both adults and children alike to embrace personal growth.
Active holidays are a holistic approach to wellness — whether you’re a couple, solo traveller, or family of five.
