Shelby Miller Traveling is a beautiful and enriching experience that allows us to explore new places, cultures, and perspectives. However, as the journey comes to an end, many travelers find themselves facing a common challenge – the post-travel blues. It’s not uncommon to feel a sense of sadness, restlessness, and longing for the adventures that have now become memories. In this post, I’ll explore three simple approaches that have personally helped me lessen post-travel blues and transition smoothly back into a daily routine: maintaining wellness routines, finding inspiration from your recent trip, and rediscovering your home with a fresh perspective.
1. Embrace a wellness routine that works for you and take good care of yourself.
Prioritize Rest and Recovery
Jet lag and travel fatigue can take a toll on your body. Upon returning home, simplify your day. Make an effort to get adequate sleep, hydrate well, and eat nourishing meals to boost your energy levels and immune system.
Movement as Medicine
Engage in gentle, intuitive movement to keep your body active and alleviate stress. Physical activity releases endorphins. And to quote all of our favorite blonde lawyer, “Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t kill their husbands, they just don’t.” I’m guessing they don’t get sick very often either.
Be Here Now
Dedicate time to meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply spending time in nature. These practices can help you stay grounded and reduce anxiety. A little goes a long way!
2. Romanticize each day with inspiration from your favorite faraway destination
Document Your Experiences
Create a travel journal, scrapbook, or digital photo album to preserve your memories. Reflecting on these moments can evoke positive emotions and keep the spirit of your journey alive.
Seek Out New Flavors
Experiment with cooking or trying new cuisines inspired by your travels. This can be a fun way to relive your experiences and share them with friends and family. After a recent trip to Italy, I will definitely be making some Pappa al Pomodoro on the next rainy, cozy day we see here in Denver.
Learn from Other Cultures
Identify aspects of the cultures you encountered during your trip that resonate with you. Incorporate these values, traditions, or practices into your daily routine. I fell in love with the fashion and guilt-free indulgence in simple pleasures that I saw in Naples and Florence, so I intend on creating new outfits to feel my best and having un dolce whenever possible.
3. See your home through new, rose-colored glasses.
Be a Tourist in Your Hometown
Pretend you’re a tourist in your own city and explore attractions, landmarks, and activities you haven’t experienced before. Visiting museums, parks, or attending local events can help you appreciate your home from a fresh perspective. Be sure to visit their website and calendar for potential “free admission” dates or other offerings!
Connect with Fellow Locals
Engage in conversations with local residents to learn about their favorite spots and hidden gems. Building new connections can make you feel more rooted and excited about your surroundings. My partner and I have an affinity for language learning and will recreate that feeling of novel connection by attending Spanish language exchange meetups!
Try a Novel Pursuit
Use your newfound inspiration to delve into new hobbies or interests you’ve been curious about. Whether it’s taking a painting class, learning a new instrument, or joining a local club, these activities can inject a sense of novelty into your routine.
A Positive Reframe
The post-travel blues are a natural part of the travel experience, but you can minimize their impact and make a smooth transition back into your daily life. By tending to your body and mind, becoming a living testament to inspiration and getting out of your comfort zone, you’ll not only avoid the blues but also cultivate a lasting sense of fulfillment and excitement in your everyday world.
Ultimately, it is a privilege to have had an experience so worth missing. It’s perfectly alright to feel the nostalgia and be grateful for all that comes along with this lifestyle.
And if all else fails, you can always begin planning your next adventure!