It is said, “Time fixes everything”, but when it comes to bad memories and deep wounds, it is not only time, but also a change in atmosphere, experience and thinking. In this context, the journey has emerged as an important means, which is helpful in relieving mental stress and negativity. Nowadays, experiences like stress, breakup, job going, or losing a loved one are becoming normal, making people looking for various measures in search of self-sensation. The yatra is no longer a means of traveling, but it has become a way to “reset” itself.
Mental health experts believe that when a person goes through a sad experience, his mind becomes like a closed room – suffocated and dark. The journey gives him an opportunity to open a new window. New places, people, languages and cultures expand the way a person thinks of thinking. Dr. Shruti Mathur, a psychologist, says, “When we go to new places, ‘Happy hormones’ such as dopamine and endorphins are released in our brain, which reduce stress and make us feel positive.”
The biggest advantage of the journey is that it helps our brain to ‘revere’. The same type of routine and memories limit our way of thinking. But when you go to mountains, beaches or historical sites, your mind starts to feel the present. This causes bad memories to be left behind slowly.
The journey is not only a geographical change, but it is also a journey of self-consciousness. When you travel alone or with someone close, you can understand your thoughts and feelings better. You question yourself and start finding their answers. Aman Mishra, a resident of Pushkar, who faced a tough breakup, says, “I was very broken. Then I traveled to Rishikesh alone. The peace I experienced during the Ganga Aarti, introduced me to myself.”
In the modern era, where social media is part of everything, travel experiences are also being shared through Instagram and YouTube. Many people are inspiring others through their travel Vlog, how the journey puts new lights in their lives. This also gives courage to those who are under mental stress.
If you think the journey is expensive, then it is not completely correct. There are many places in India where the budget can be traveled – such as Kasauli, McLeodganj, Pushkar, Varanasi, and Hampi. You can also experience travel by backpacking.
If you are going through a sad experience and feel mental fatigue, then follow the following suggestions:
Nowadays many therapists recommend the journey to adopt the journey as ‘supportive therapy’. Some counseling firms are also running travel-based healing programs, where people travel in groups and share their feelings. It also increases social relations.
