Travel is a great way to improve your mental health. Unfortunately, not everyone has the time or finances to hop on a plane whenever they please. Though you may not be able to travel as often as you like, it is still essential to take a break from activities of daily life. According to Talkspace, a blog dedicated to mental health, here are a few ways you can have a virtual vacation without having to break your bank.
Switch off your electronic devices
While on a typical vacation, you hardly ever have time to scroll down your favorite social media platform. You can apply the same case to give yourself a virtual vacation. Take some time away from your laptop or phone or lock it in a different room if you lack self-control. Alternatively, you can turn off the wi-fi signal from your device or put your mobile phone on airplane mode. Doing this will give you a chance to relax and become aware of your surroundings. You get to take your mind off the entire world and focus on yourself. If you are worried about missing essential notifications from work while you are away, you can notify your co-workers in advance and let them know your return date.
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Plan Ahead
In most cases, you are aware that you intend to take a vacation before you do it. The aim is to relax during your free time rather than dreading how hard you will have to work to catch up once you return. It is, therefore, essential to do as much as you possibly can before you head out on your virtual vacation. Note the vital tasks that you need your attention in a to-do list and try to complete as many of them as you can before taking a break. You may have to work a little bit harder before you take a break, but its all worth it.
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Explore a new surrounding
You don’t necessarily have to go someplace far to see something new. There may be a lot of areas that you still haven’t explored even in your home town. Take some time to visit one of these places. If you have nothing in mind, you can ask a co-worker or friend for recommendations. Whether it is far away or close to home, visiting a new spot is always exciting. Enjoying the beauty of unique scenery will make you appreciate nature differently and improve your mental health.
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Give yourself a treat
While on vacation, people tend to treat themselves to exotic dishes, expensive spa treatments, and more. You don’t necessarily have to go the extra mile when taking a virtual vacation. You can eat out at a nice restaurant or treat yourself to an extra hour of sleep. Indulging in a facial or massage or eating a sweet dessert can do the trick too. Giving yourself a treat enables you to take note of the sensations that you are feeling. It is an excellent form of relaxation and self-appreciation.
Talkspace is a New York-based startup that focuses on online therapy. The platform has a network of licensed therapists who offer professional consultation and treatment plans to individuals who need therapy. Talkspace reviews have shown that users of the platform get easy access to affordable online therapy. All this is done from the comfort of your laptop or phone, provided you have an internet connection. Users of the platform are assured of 100% confidentiality, just like in any atypical therapy office visit. In most Talkspace reviews, users have stated that they were able to get therapy services that made a real and lasting effect on their lives.