Going home for the holidays? Here's how to cope with travel stress
Life Kit
Deep Dive
Why is holiday travel particularly stressful?
Holiday travel is stressful due to increased traffic, crowded airports, and the emotional baggage of anticipating family reunions. People often revert to old family roles, which can bring up childhood trauma or feelings of infantilization.
What are some mindfulness techniques to reduce travel stress?
Mindfulness techniques include putting on a half smile, listening to cheerful music, practicing straw breathing (exhaling longer than inhaling), and singing stressful thoughts aloud. These methods help ground and calm individuals in frustrating situations.
How can self-compassion help during travel anxiety?
Self-compassion involves treating yourself like a good friend, which can reduce anxiety. Techniques include positive self-talk, placing a hand on your heart (compassionate self-touch), and reminding yourself that fear is often irrational and survivable.
What should you do if you lose your cool during travel?
If you lose your cool, apologize sincerely. Recognize that mistakes don’t define your character and remember that millions of others are experiencing similar frustrations, which can help put the situation in perspective.
How can travel frustrations be reframed as a learning opportunity?
Travel frustrations can be reframed as practice for life’s inevitable challenges. Embracing discomfort and lack of control can build resilience and equanimity, preparing individuals for bigger life obstacles.
- Increased traffic and airport crowds during holidays worsen travel stress.
- Anticipation of family reunions adds emotional stress.
- Reuniting with family can trigger complicated feelings and past traumas.
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