For a variety of reasons (volume of work, Covid, etc.), my family and I have not done much traveling in the past five years. And I miss it.

Whether a day trip with my son or a visit to Scotland to discover my wife’s roots, travel offers meaningful health benefits that support both physical and mental well-being. Even short-distance travel, such as exploring a nearby town or spending time in nature close to home, can significantly reduce stress levels. Changing your environment, even briefly, helps interrupt routine stressors and activates the body’s relaxation response. Studies show that exposure to natural settings lowers cortisol levels and enhances mood, making brief trips a powerful tool for emotional reset.

Of course, long-distance travel requires more planning, but it provides deeper benefits. Experiencing new cultures, environments, and languages stimulates the brain, improving cognitive flexibility and creativity. Research suggests that engaging with unfamiliar surroundings strengthens neural pathways associated with learning and problem-solving.

Both short and long trips also encourage physical activity. Walking through cities, hiking trails, or simply spending more time outdoors increases daily movement, supporting cardiovascular health and mobility. Travel has also been linked to improved sleep patterns, as we tend to disconnect from screens and adhere more closely to natural light cycles.

Social well-being improves as well. Whether traveling with others or meeting new people on the journey, social interaction contributes to enhanced life satisfaction and reduced feelings of isolation.

In my experience, traveling—near or far—refreshes the mind, strengthens the body, and promotes a healthier, more engaged lifestyle.

By Peter Yurek, BSc.Phm.