According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a 25% increase in anxiety and depression cases worldwide and there is no doubt that the last two years have been a lonely, isolating time for many of us. Job losses, marriage breakdowns and bereavements have all taken their toll. So, with May being Mental Health Awareness Month, there’s never been a better time to plan some time out – just for you.
Here at We Love Transformational Travel, we believe travel is a powerful way to reduce stress, work on yourself and boost your self-esteem and confidence. Think about the new environments you will explore, the people you will meet, the focus planning the trip will give you – it really is an act of self-care.
We work with some truly amazing transformers whose mission is to help you work on your mental health in a safe and nurturing environment, away from the distractions of everyday life. Browse the following list of seven inspirational trips:
1. Step back and reflect on a mindful trip through Ireland
Mindfulness and meditation are two of the most powerful tools we can possess to manage our overall wellbeing. On this six-day trip through enchanting Ireland, you’ll explore the perfect environment for self-reflection, to ground yourself firmly in the present. Highlights include a retreat at the Cliffs of Moher, fishing and meditation where the old Irish monks did between Galway and Mayo, and climbing an old Irish pilgrimage.
2. Immerse yourself in mindfulness in South Africa
This five-day retreat in pristine bushveld takes you on a guided safari hike in a Big 5 wildlife reserve. In the powerful surroundings of nature, you’ll switch off from what it is that has been holding you back and deepen your mindfulness practice. With session topics including Awakening Awareness, Coping with Anxiety and Stress, Altering Perceptions, Balancing Body and Mind, and Aversion and Attachment – this could just be a life-changing experience.
3. Navigate the Noosphere in South Africa
Never heard of ‘the noosphere’? It’s your sphere of consciousness and mental activity that is born out of your existential dialogue with that which you call reality. Learn more on this intensive five-day retreat in the stunning Balule Nature Reserve which promises a journey of self-discovery using gentle spiritual teachings of presence and awakening. Clear any blockages that might be preventing you from living a peaceful, joy-filled, and abundant life.
4. Reach your inner potential in Sri Lanka
Located alongside the unspoilt Rekawa Beach in southern Sri Lanka, Sen Wellness Sanctuary offers bespoke retreat programmes. So, if you’ve got a busy schedule, this is perfect for you – you decide the dates and the programme that works best for you. Depending on what you choose, you can expect a blend of Ayurvedic therapies, meditation, yoga, sound healing, a group fire and cacao ceremony and plenty of time for reflection.
5. Embark on a life transition walk in Minnesota
Minnesota, a midwestern state in the US, is renowned for its breath-taking scenery, magnificent forests, beautiful prairieland and sparkling blue lakes. This three-day walking trip is designed to help those who feel they are at a crossroads in their life to navigate the next steps. A scenic journey will take over the Root River, through valleys, quaint towns, and along bluffs to reconnect with yourself.
6. Revitalize and repair in Costa Rica
Blue Spirit is a world-class yoga and meditation retreat centre, providing an extraordinary setting to those who are dedicated to spiritual transformation, personal growth, and environmental sustainability. Their upcoming seven-day retreat in August 2022 – The Blue Spirit Longevity Week – focuses on a holistic approach to self-care including optimal nutrition, detoxification, yoga, self-regulation and more.
7. Calm your mind in California
Set among 411 acres of serene oak woodlands in the secluded hills of West Marin County, California, Spirit Rock Meditation Center is a refuge from everyday life where you’ll quiet the mind, soften the heart and see life in a new way. The teachings of the Buddha (Dharma) and the practices of Insight Meditation (Vipassana) and loving-kindness meditation (metta) are at the heart of all the programs which are offered in a variety of formats from single day non-residential all the way to 8+ nights – find the format that works for you.