The Mindful Traveler

Go Fast, See Much; or Go Slow, See Deeply? The title brings up another basic difference of travel philosophy.  I'm sure it also causes some disagreement and complaints between travelers.  What does this have to do with Mindfulness?  You can travel at break-neck speed, but there's a lot you'll miss. If your travel is as frenetic as your normal life, it won't be very relaxing. 1. See as Much as Possible One "Travel Camp" says: "I'm never going to come this way again, so I could see as much as I possibly can." That does have some validity. There are must-see sights that are absolutely non-negotiable -- you'd regret missing them. Depending on your own personal or work situation, you may not have lots of free time to travel. In addition, your health or age may not allow numerous opportunities for travel. (Now in the time of Covid-19, people may consider the possibility that they might not be able to re-visit countries if the miss certain...

How do you d eeply Appreciate your travel? Short answer: E xperience it with Mindful Clarity . Travel exposes you to new scenery and ideas. T une in with the help of mindfulness! Fully use your senses Appreciate things directly Be aware of your preconceived notions and biases Be open to the unexpected Distractions How do mental distractions dilute your experience? If you're worrying about missing a connection, or stewing about a closed attraction, you're probably missing something interesting. You're certainly not having a fun experience! What do you do when you realize you're stressing? It might be good to stop, sit and breathe, be mindful, and calm down. (Even if the situation is disrupting your visit or spoiling your plans, most of us don't problem-solve very well when stressed.) Many times my wife will become tired while trudging around a foreign city.  I usually have lots of places I'd like to see.  It would be easy for me to be ...

Does Mindfulness enhance the inherent benefits of travel? Short answer: Yes!  II have meditated during nearly all of my travels around the U.S.A. and the world.  I have enjoyed many peak experiences.  But I've also encountered and transcended many travel glitches that would have spoiled the trip for many. Enjoy the Richness of Travel with Mindfulness Mindfulness allows you to tune in and fully appreciate all your experiences. Travel lets you enjoy and appreciate new things, such as: The joy and delight of surprises Being open to the unexpected Letting go of your preconceived notions and your biases Tuning in with different senses, and appreciating things differently Exposing you to new ideas that enhance your creativity. Bring the peace & serenity home!   ( Right : Cinnamon-Sweet  Trdelnik  baking over coals in  Prague's Old Town Square. They smell heavenly!) The Miracle of This Moment I n mindfulness training, I ...