We often think of a holiday as something that starts only once we’ve checked into our hotel or self-catering apartment, put our bags down, and looked out the window to a new place. We treat air travel (the bustling airport, security queues and time on the plane) as a stressful hurdle that we simply have to endure. But if we shift our perspective, we realise that the journey is not just a means to an end. In fact, it’s the opening chapter to our time away.
When we arrive at our destination feeling anxious and exhausted, we can spend the first few days of our precious trip trying to recover. We might be physically present, but mentally, we’re still caught in the chaos of the airport. To smoothly transition into a truly restorative escape, think of your journey starting the moment you close your front door.
Preparation as a ritual
The secret to a serene arrival lies in how we prepare ourselves. It is about removing our internal and external barriers by completing simple tasks that keep us in control. For instance, a few days before you depart, take a moment to put together a packing list and check the local weather forecast for your destination. They sound like small things, but putting together a list of your key items, like a passport and a phone charger, as well as knowing whether you need to choose your favourite summer dress or sturdy umbrella – or both to suit different climates – helps you pack with confidence. It’ll help avoid any last-minute panic that so often disrupts our feeling of peace and control.
Finding stillness in the air
Once we are on the plane, we have the rare gift of forced stillness. In our modern, busy and hyper-connected lives, this is the perfect sanctuary, if we choose to see it that way. Instead of seeing the cabin as a cramped space, view it as a calm environment. Use the time to hydrate, enjoy our favourite snacks, breathe deeply, and disconnect from the noise of the world.
To maintain this sense of calm, it helps to build your own toolkit of strategies. Many seasoned travellers rely on a specific tried and tested system and follow a list of tips for a stress-free flight to keep their anxiety at bay. Whether it’s choosing the right seat to minimise the feel of turbulence or practising mindful movements during the flight, these small adjustments protect us from feeling stressed.
The art of arriving
Travelling can be taxing on our physical and mental well-being, especially when experiencing long flights, crossing multiple time zones and navigating crowded terminals. Taking care of your mind is just as important as packing your suitcase. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the journey, there are some general mental health coping strategies you can follow to stay grounded and manage stress in high-pressure environments. Try some before you travel so you know what will work for you in the air – the environment might be different, but the strategies are the same.
When we prioritise a peaceful journey, we arrive at our destination as the best version of ourselves. We are ready to take in the culture and beauty, as well as taste the local food and meet the local people, with ease and curiosity. After all, the most beautiful holidays aren’t just about where you go, but the state of mind that you bring with you.
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