The Importance of Resting After Travel: Keeping the Awe Alive

Traveling can be an incredible experience that fills us with awe and wonder, but it's important to remember that those feelings don't last forever. Even though we may be standing in front of the most amazing landscape or architecture, after a while, the excitement wears off, we experience 'awe' fatigue. This is when it is a good idea to return to our daily routines. The length of time one can travel before 'awe' starts to wear off is completely dependant on the person, but it's important to recognize that rest and doing the mundane is a necessary part of the process.

Some people can travel for months at a time going from place to place. Others can only travel for extended periods of time if they are spending it one country where things are relatively similar and routine. While others only need days or a couple weeks to start feeling 'awe' fatigue.

One of the best ways to keep the sense of awe that comes with travel is to take time to rest and reflect. If you are on an extended trip, this can include planning down days, relaxation days or days where you do mundane chores just like you would at home. Once you return home, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but taking the time to process your experiences and share your stories with loved ones or co-workers can help you hold on to that feeling of wonder. Some people are now even planning rest days from their vacation or travel, meaning they come home a few days before they have to be back at work in order to 'reset'.

It's important to remember that being happy all the time isn't a realistic goal. Life is full of ups and downs, and it's okay to experience a range of emotions. In fact, allowing yourself to experience a full range of emotions is an important part of maintaining good mental health. I, myself, have experienced 'travel depression' where I was so happy traveling, that being home made me really sad. These feelings and experiences pass or fade and you start looking forward to the next trip!

Travel can be an incredible source of motivation and inspiration, but it's important to remember that it's not the only way to find meaning and purpose in life. Sometimes the most meaningful experiences are the ones that happen close to home. Remember that every day can be an adventure if you decide to make it one, even simple things like going to the store.

While traveling can be an amazing experience that fills us with awe, it's important to remember that those feelings don't last forever. It's important to take time to rest and reflect once you return home, and to allow yourself to experience a full range of emotions. By doing so, you can maintain a sense of wonder and purpose in your life, even when you're not on the road.