travelling is just like healing; it’s all about HOW you choose to travel.

There’s no wrong or right way to travel.

But there are ways to travel that will heal you,

ways that will grow you,

ways that will expand your perspective and worldview.

In a week, I’m heading off on a solo trip. And I’m excited because… travelling has always been a little scary for me. But in the best, most exhilarating way.

I’m putting myself out there; alone, in a new country, with people who grew up in a completely different world from me. Different education systems, different kinds of parenting, different experiences of city and nature.

And that’s a big part of why I travel, and solo-travel to be specific.

To grow myself. To meet parts of myself I haven’t met before,

parts of me I’d only get to discover when I’m out there on my own.

I used to tell people, that “… everyone should solo travel”. But after meeting many ‘solo travellers’, I take that back.

I’d change it to say that everyone should solo travel with the intention of being with discomfort.

Because I’ve met people who travel solo, but never leave their comfort zones. And they come back the exact same person they were before.

And as a therapist, I’d say this;

that goes the same for healing, doesn’t it?

People say healing happens with time. I’d correct that.

“Healing happens with time, and with what you choose to do with that time.”

Because if you just had a break-up and you decide to keep jumping from partner to partner afterwards?

I wouldn’t call that healing.

I’d call that avoidance, ignorance, and a dash of inconsideration because truthfully?

When we walk around with unhealed wounds, we don’t just hurt ourselves.

We hurt others around us too.

If you went through something painful, and all you do is tell the story over and over again?

I wouldn’t call that healing either.

With love, I’d gently tell you that you are simply turning the experience into your identity.

And avoiding the real work of looking at it, and unpacking it and moving beyond it.

As a soon-to-be therapist, I’d tell you this.

There’s no ‘right’ way to heal.

But there are elements of it that apply for everyone.

Creating new lived experiences, spending intentional time alone to reflect and gain insights, and when you can?

Working with someone who can guide you towards greater clarity, self-trust, and a healthier relationship with yourself.

I’m not saying therapy is a must, but it can be efficient and effective in a way that friends cannot be.

And also…. healing isn’t the whole point of life.

It’s tiring to keep focusing your time on ‘healing’ from people and experiences over and over again.

Life is more than that. So prioritise healing and being a better version of yourself,

while also prioritise creating lived experiences for yourself in this world.

So… you know what.

I’d still advise you to go solo travel. And when I officially become a therapist, I’d be the kind who tells my clients,

“Omg go travel, and then let’s debrief all about your trip when you’re back.”

Because healing and growth don’t have to be heavy.

They can be adventurous, light-hearted and full of fun.

love,

your soon-to-be therapist