Travelling is a great time to embrace New Habits: An interesting one is Journaling
Travel isn’t just about exploring new places; it’s a transformative experience that allows you to refresh your mind and body. One of the most powerful ways to elevate your journey is by forming new habits, particularly through journaling. As we embark on adventures across the globe, travel can become a gateway to both self-discovery and self-improvement.
1. Traveling Time to Refresh and Reenergize
When we travel, we step outside our daily routines and immerse ourselves in new surroundings. This break from normalcy creates a natural reset for both our mental and physical health. A study by Wood, Tam, and Witt (2005) reveals that travel disrupts old patterns, giving us a perfect opportunity to recharge and start anew. Whether it’s the stress-relieving sound of waves on a remote island or the excitement of city exploration, travel offers a unique opportunity to refresh our mindset and return home revitalized.
For more tips on how travel can help you recharge, check out this article on escaping the stress and recharging in Malta.
2. Forming New Habits While Traveling
Travel provides the perfect environment to establish new, positive habits. Since our routines are naturally disrupted when we’re on the road, it becomes easier to shed old habits and introduce new, healthier behaviors. Whether it’s committing to daily exercise, eating healthier, or starting a mindfulness practice, travel sets the stage for new beginnings. A change in scenery can make it easier to break free from the autopilot of daily life and embrace new goals. According to a study by Wood et al. (2005), the key to habit formation lies in changing environments—making travel a prime opportunity to shape new habits that will stick.
If you’re a digital nomad or aspiring to be one, consider exploring tips on how digital nomads find the perfect temporary home, which can help you create an environment conducive to habit formation.
3. Why Journaling During Travel
One of the most rewarding habits to start while traveling is journaling. Journaling is an excellent way to process emotions, document memories, and gain insights into your journey. Research by Pennebaker and Beall (1986) demonstrates that expressive writing, such as journaling, can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. When you put pen to paper, you’re not just recording moments; you’re creating a space to reflect on your feelings, your observations, and your personal growth during your travels.
Journaling also enhances mindfulness by encouraging you to be present. When we travel, we encounter new sights, sounds, and experiences, and writing them down helps us appreciate the richness of these moments. Moreover, a study by Barlam & Martens (2018) shows that journaling improves memory retention, meaning that documenting your journey in a journal can help you remember even the smallest, but significant, details long after your trip is over.
For more on how travel can improve your mental health, see How Does Travel Improve Mental Health?.
4. How to Journal While Traveling
Starting a travel journal may seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple guide to make journaling an enjoyable part of your travel routine:
- Set aside time: Dedicate 10-15 minutes each day to write about your experiences. Whether it’s in the morning with a cup of coffee or in the evening after a day of exploring, consistency is key.
- Be flexible: Your entries don’t have to be long or detailed. Some days, a list of things you noticed or enjoyed is enough. On other days, you might feel like diving deep into your emotions or reflections.
- Include sketches or mementos: Travel sketch journaling, as highlighted by Gerber, Reesman, and Reesman (2016), can be a fun way to enhance your writing. A quick sketch of the sunset or a pressed flower can bring your words to life and deepen your connection to the moment.
- Reflect: Take time to not only describe what you see but also how you feel. What did the experience teach you? How did it change your perspective?
Actionable Tips for Forming the Journaling Habit
A study by Dr. Phillippa Lally and her team from University College London (2010) offers key actionable insights into habit formation. Their research shows that, on average, it takes 66 days to form a habit. Here are some actionable steps based on their findings:
- Consistency matters: Missing a day doesn’t derail the habit. Try to journal most days, but don’t be discouraged by occasional lapses.
- Start small: Begin by journaling for just 5 minutes a day. Gradually increase the time as the habit becomes easier.
- Set cues: Choose a consistent time and place to journal, such as after breakfast or before bed. This helps to anchor the habit in your routine.
By following these guidelines, travelers can establish a sustainable journaling habit that enriches both their travel experiences and personal growth.
5. Top 3 Destinations Ideal for Journaling
When it comes to choosing the perfect destination for journaling, some places are naturally more conducive to reflection and creativity. Here are the top three destinations, each from a different continent, that are perfect for travelers looking to start their journaling habit:
- Malta (Europe):
- The Mediterranean island of Malta is a paradise for travelers seeking inspiration. From the historic streets of Valletta to the serene beaches of Gozo, the island offers an eclectic mix of cultural and natural beauty that is perfect for reflection. With its rich history and vibrant sunsets, Malta encourages you to slow down, reflect, and document your experiences in a peaceful setting.
If you’re new to Malta, you can learn more about the country’s location here. To plan your trip, explore this Malta Travel Guide. While you’re there, consider visiting historical sites such as the Malta Knights Tour, or explore 20 things to do in Sliema.
- Mauritius (Africa):
- Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant multicultural heritage, Mauritius provides the ideal backdrop for reflective journaling. Whether you’re relaxing on its pristine beaches or exploring the island’s botanical gardens, this Indian Ocean paradise inspires tranquility and creativity. The island’s peaceful environment makes it easy to focus on self-reflection and gratitude journaling, with the sound of gentle waves adding a soothing soundtrack to your writing sessions.
- Tulum, Mexico (Americas):
- Tulum’s stunning Caribbean coastline, ancient Mayan ruins, and bohemian vibe offer a unique combination of history, nature, and mindfulness. Whether you’re journaling on the beach at sunrise or reflecting after a visit to the ruins, Tulum is a destination that fosters personal reflection. The calming turquoise waters and vibrant local culture make it a prime location for mindfulness practices and journaling about self-discovery.
Conclusion
Travel not only broadens the mind but also provides the perfect environment for starting new, life-enhancing habits. Journaling is one of the simplest yet most rewarding habits you can form while on the road. It allows you to process your experiences, reflect on your journey, and retain memories long after the trip ends. By incorporating a few minutes of journaling into your travel routine, you can transform your travels into a deeper, more meaningful experience.
References
- Barlam, A. & Martens, A. (2018). “The Role of Writing in Memory Retention.” Journal of Experimental Psychology.
- Gerber, S., Reesman, A., & Reesman, J. (2016). “Creative Expression through Travel Sketching.” Creativity Research Journal.
- Lally, P., Van Jaarsveld, C. H., Potts, H. W., & Wardle, J. (2010). “How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world.” European Journal of Social Psychology, 40(6), 998-1009.
- Pennebaker, J.W., & Beall, S. (1986). “Expressive Writing and Emotional Health.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
- Wood, W., Tam, L. Z., & Witt, M. G. (2005). “Changing Circumstances, Disrupting Habits.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
- Kaufman, J. C., & Baer, J. (2005). “Creativity and Mental Health.” Psychological Review.
These studies emphasize how journaling while traveling can improve your mental health, memory retention, and overall experience.
