Traveling is an exciting and inspiring activity. It gives you a chance to meet new people, enjoy new experiences, and broaden your horizons. Many people see traveling as a fun luxury, but, did you know that it can also have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being?

Because traveling involves exposing your body to new environments, it can strengthen your immune system. When your body is exposed to new bacteria, viruses, and other particles, it creates more antibodies. These are proteins that combat foreign bodies and protect you from disease and illness. Stimulating your immune system through this type of exposure can make it easier for your body to ward off sickness in the future.

Although missing a connecting flight or losing baggage in a foreign airport is sure to boost your anxiety, traveling has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, and rather dramatically.According to one study, three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood. Interestingly, these benefits tend to linger for weeks after the trip has ended.

While people tend to avoid the subject in our society, depression is unfortunately a major problem. Millions of Americans struggle with depression on a regular basis and it’s not uncommon for doctors to overprescribe medication for depression.

Luckily, healthier alternatives are available for escaping the hopelessness of a depressed state. According to research, travel may be one of them.

A study from the Marshfield Clinic in Wisconsin found that women who vacation at least twice a year areless likely to suffer from depression and chronic stress than women who vacation less than once every two years.

Almost half of the world’s population experiences some type of cardiovascular disease. Traveling more frequently can greatly lower the risk of developing these conditions. In particular, travel helps reduce the likelihood of having a heart attack. Men who spend several years without taking trips increase their risk of a heart attack by up to 30 precent. This effect may be linked to the increased physical activity that usually comes with traveling, such as walking and exploring new places.

References:5 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Traveling Abroad 10 Proven Health Benefits of Traveling | by Becca Pardess | Fitplan Technologies | Medium

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