Have you always dreamed of traveling but have yet to act on it because of your crippling anxiety?
Traveling can be pretty scary, however, it’s also one of the most memorable and invigorating things you’ll ever do in this lifetime. If you’re excited about the upcoming big trip you’ve planned and arranged months before only to find yourself anxious about stepping in on foreign land, the best thing you can do is overcome this unexpected panic-attack.
Anxiety can take a toll on your physical and mental health, but remember: even the well-traveled experience this, you only have to conquer it and gain back control of your composure. Here are a few tips on how you can kick your anxiety away:
Research extensively before you go
Before you leave your home, make sure that you’ve done thorough research regarding your hotel accommodation, where and how to get to the places you plan to visit, which places are high-risk of danger to avoid, familiarizing yourself with the airport, public transportation, the basic do’s and don’ts when you get there, their customs and traditions, and dress codes in certain places if any.
Embarking on this trip should prompt you in knowing what to expect and how to handle those that you don’t. Being prepared for the worst gets you one step ahead of the curve. Knowing just enough before you go shall help ease your worries.
Step out of your comfort zone
A lot of people keep themselves in the box for safety and comfort. But it’s not always a great idea to stay in your comfort zone especially if it’s your way of avoiding stress or anxiety because let’s face it: it isn’t always the best solution. And in terms of handling your travel anxiety, it is definitely not the brightest solution.
Do something that scares you or anything new for that matter every day or at least once a week. Go solo on a weekender trip, walk a different route to and from work, or hang out with new people. Exposing yourself to what scares you is a sure-fire way to conquer your fear and apprehensions.
Prepare yourself mentally and physically
As mentioned earlier, anxiety can really affect your mental and physical strength. Wherever your destination is and whoever you’re with, traveling will always have a few humps and bumps. It can be as simple as forgetting your hanky or extreme as getting lost. So the best way to combat this is to expect that you may get anxious before and during the trip; and prepare on how you would deal when the attack comes creeping near.
Practice breathing techniques to calm yourself. Also, don’t forget to bring the necessities that should get you covered physically such as your important travel documents, emergency contact numbers, medicines, and the likes. Being prepare first and foremost can steer your mind clear off of stress and problems.
Keep reminding yourself why you want to travel
Why do you have these trips planned? Because your soul yearns for immersion, adventure, and a breath of fresh air and sights. If it’s your lifelong dream to travel far and wide, don’t deprive yourself of that goal. Instead, help yourself reach it. Remind yourself of the possibilities and how uplifting to your should it’d be when going on your countless journeys. Remind yourself that you only have one chance to live this dream, and you won’t let the feeling of anxiety get in the way of it.
To keep yourself from stressing over any “worst-case scenarios”, plan ahead and learn how to compose yourself. Anxiety can be a hindrance, but only if you let it. Bear in mind that you are capable of being stronger than you think and you can deal with any setbacks along the way.
Author bio: Chie sails from Parramatta.You can find her writing for Holiday Inn Parramatta Accommodation in her downtime, the perfect hotel choice to stay in for both business or leisure.