“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley
Do you ever feel stuck in the monotony of your daily routine, as though you’re running in circles with no end in sight? Even when we love our jobs, families, and homes, the predictability of daily life can sometimes make us feel disconnected, anxious, or uninspired. Traveling, whether it’s a short getaway or a long adventure abroad, can be a powerful way to break free, reset, and gain new perspectives.
This past month, I had the opportunity to travel to the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina, exploring Florianópolis and the picturesque coastal towns along the Santa Catarina coast. Through this journey, I discovered firsthand how traveling can profoundly impact mental well-being. The experience also made me realize how different life can be in another part of the world. While my everyday life in Boise, Idaho, follows its familiar rhythm, another universe was unfolding in Brazil, with people living entirely different lives, shaped by unique landscapes, traditions, and worldviews. Seeing this parallel existence reminded me of how easy it is to become narrowly focused on our immediate surroundings, forgetting that countless perspectives, challenges, and joys are playing out across the globe at the same time. Here are six ways my travels in Brazil enhanced my mental health and helped me break out of my own narrow worldview.
1. It Broadened My Perspective
Walking the streets of Florianópolis, with its blend of modern city life and laid-back island culture, was a stark contrast to my usual days in Boise. Watching fishermen mend their nets at sunrise, surfers chasing waves in the Atlantic, and families enjoying long afternoon meals, I was struck by how life moves at a different pace here. Everything I saw, from the colonial architecture to the lush coastal rainforests, reminded me that the world is vast and varied. This newfound awareness helped me step outside of my daily concerns and recognize the beauty in diversity and change.
2. It Taught Me More About the World
Traveling teaches you more than any classroom can. During my time in Santa Catarina, I had to adapt to a different way of life—learning to navigate without knowing much Portuguese, understanding the deep connection locals have to the sea, and appreciating their approach to work-life balance. From tasting fresh seafood at a small beachside café to participating in a lively Carnaval celebration known as a bloco, every experience deepened my understanding of how different cultures shape their realities.
One of the most exhilarating moments of my trip was joining a bloco, where a massive crowd gathered to follow a truck with a live band playing energetic Carnaval music. For three miles, we danced and sang along to familiar songs that everyone seemed to know by heart. The joy and unity of the moment were infectious, reminding me how music and celebration can bring people together in the most incredible ways. This experience reinforced that there’s no single “right” way to live—only different ways, shaped by history, geography, and community.
3. It Strengthened My Relationships
Traveling with a friend to Brazil brought us closer in ways that wouldn’t have happened back home. Whether we were lost trying to find a hidden beach or marveling at a sunset over the ocean, these shared moments deepened our bond. We also met locals who shared their stories, perspectives, and hospitality with us, reinforcing how connections transcend borders. Being immersed in a different culture together made us more appreciative of each other’s strengths and adaptability.
4. It Increased My Happiness
Even before I stepped foot in Brazil, the anticipation of my trip lifted my mood. Research supports this—studies show that planning a vacation can boost happiness. Once I arrived, the sheer joy of discovering new landscapes, savoring delicious Brazilian food, and immersing myself in the rhythm of local life made me feel more alive than I had in months. Even now, back in Boise, the memories of those moments bring me happiness, reinforcing that experiences—not things—bring the most lasting fulfillment.
5. It Provided Stress Relief
Traveling allowed me to disconnect from my daily stressors. In Florianópolis, my worries about emails and deadlines faded away as I hiked coastal trails, swam in turquoise waters, and simply absorbed the laid-back island lifestyle. Instead of rushing from task to task, I found myself present in each moment—watching waves crash against the rocks, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin, and enjoying long conversations without distractions. Returning home, I felt recharged, more patient, and more mindful of how I manage stress.
6. It Enhanced My Creativity
Brazil, with its vibrant landscapes and rich culture, sparked my creativity in unexpected ways. Whether it was photographing the colorful fishing boats in Lagoa da Conceição or journaling about the differences I noticed between my life in Idaho and the coastal rhythm of Santa Catarina, I felt an urge to capture my experiences in creative forms. Scientists say new environments rewire our brains, enhancing neuroplasticity—and I could feel this happening. Ideas flowed more freely, and my perspective on what truly matters expanded.
Final Thoughts: Take the Trip!
My time in Brazil was more than just a vacation—it was a reminder that our lives are just one of many happening simultaneously across the world. While we are caught up in our daily routines, there are parallel universes of existence playing out elsewhere, filled with different dreams, struggles, and joys. This realization helped me break free from my narrow worldview and embrace a greater sense of connection to humanity.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uninspired, consider traveling—even if it’s just a short weekend getaway. Stepping into a new environment, even temporarily, can work wonders for your mental health and broaden your understanding of the world.
Call to Action: Have you ever experienced the mental health benefits of travel? I’d love to hear your story! Share your thoughts in the comments below or reach out on social media. Let’s inspire each other to explore the world and expand our perspectives.