Why everybody should travel

I have given a lot of thought to the benefits of worldwide travel. Here are 5 benefits that I think are worth sharing and pondering.

Benefit # 1

Being on vacation frees up at least 40 hours per week of time your brain would otherwise spend working. This extra time alone spent devoted to your enjoyment is a healthy break for your brain. In today’s super-fast world, we have a sometimes unhealthy relationship with time – becoming over-obsessed with saving it and getting mad at those who waste it. Well SLOW DOWN to Earth Time people – we are just specks of sand on the earth hourglass.

Benefit # 2

The very thought of giving up work for a few months seems terrifying to people. Mostly because you are voluntarily giving up your salary for a few months while you in turn, spend a good chunk of money. In a “down economy”, this could be financially scary! Well, as long as you plan according to your budget, and minimize your home expenses while away, I believe worldwide travel, in some form, is available to all working people! In fact, reminding yourself that there are more important things to life than money, and literally putting it where your mouth is, can refresh your relationship with your finances, keeping it in check, but not letting it rule your life.

Benefit # 3

From the moment we are born, we are victims of our culture, defining ourselves by the communities we are a part of.  It is very difficult to fully appreciate how much our society shapes us without stepping out of that society for a while. Visiting other countries shows us what we have in common with other humans, and what makes us unique, all at the same time. It is this opportunity to see life through the eyes of others, that can help us understand our own society’s weak points, and strengths. Get out there and learn…

Benefit # 4

Ever heard the saying, we only use 10% of our brains potential? Well my take on that is that when you slip into daily routines, you train yourself to perform without thinking. We become hypnotized, and mercy to the same old thought patterns resulting from the same old sensory inputs. If you want to snap out of it and create new neural pathways, then immerse yourself in new experiences. This will force your brain to stay alert, and connect the dots. Be reminded of what you love, what makes you tick, and why you like living.

Benefit # 5

Food. Everyone needs it! Fueling not only our bodies, but also our art, dreams, gatherings, and lifestyles. I think one of my favorite things about the shrinking world is how accessible world cuisine has been. What a wonderful feeling to try delicious new cuisines for the first time and make a nommy-time. As vegetarians in Seattle, we are spoiled with good food, and love to cook it, share it, buy it, and try it. Bring on the flavor!

Do you agree? What sort of travel experiences have you had that back these up or do you call BS? Tell me….