In life’s journey, no matter how far we travel, the destination is ultimately self. Travel, especially solo travel can enhance spiritual growth and the journey to self as it involves leaving behind what is familiar and comfortable and visiting places not yet explored. Travel is therefore synonymous with the spiritual journey, with the discovery being both outward and inward.
Life is both a physical and spiritual journey, and travel is a pilgrimage that blends the physical and the spiritual into a unified experience. More people of late are seeking holistic holidays rather than touristic excursions, opting for wellness and spiritual retreats. However, that’s not to say that spiritual growth and awareness can’t naturally occur while touring human-made or natural sites.
Enlightenment is the recognition of who and what we are. It is continuous and an experience that can happen anytime and anywhere – making our paths unique.
My experiences
Though our reasons for travelling can differ and may not necessarily be to seek enlightenment, without realising, travel can enhance spiritual growth intrinsically, and it has done for me in ways I could never have imagined.
My first trip to Egypt, without doubt, accelerated my spiritual growth when I went inside the Great Pyramid at Giza. It was an event that was profound and life-changing for me, and I will carry it with me forever. Similar experiences occurred on my second visit to Egypt at Abu Simbel and Karnak Temple. For these reasons, I refer to Egypt as my spiritual home.
In the fast-paced, chaotic world many of us live and have become indoctrinated in, we all need some time out for self to discover who we are without the labels and connect with Source, God, the Universe – Ourselves.
Travel can enhance spiritual growth for the following reasons:
1. It allows connection with something bigger than ourselves
Spirituality generally involves a sense of connection to something bigger than our physical self. It’s being able to experience connectedness with something more than our human experience and a knowing that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic and divine. When we travel, it allows the opportunity to connect with ancient and current wisdom for spiritual and personal growth.
2. It allows us to be present
The basic principles of mindfulness are paying more attention to the present moment and connection of mind, body and spirit and the sensations experienced. It’s when these elements are in harmony that spiritual illumination occurs. Solo travel grounds us in the present moment. When we are present and appreciative of the moment, we can carry and incorporate the experiences with us in our everyday lives.
3. It allows us to reconnect with nature
Being in touch with nature enhances spirituality. Why? Because reconnecting with nature means reconnecting to self – we are nature! Nature is spiritual energy, and reconnecting through nature hikes, sacred journeys, spa getaways, and spiritual retreats can enhance spiritual wellbeing. Such travel also adds to our spiritual wellness practices in our day-to-day lives.
Adventure holidays are also hugely beneficial for both mind and body, and this type of travel can reduce stress, benefit mental health and make space for greater mindfulness.
4. It allows us to gain experiences & knowledge
Experience teaches wisdom, and travel allows us to learn and experience new things. Through these experiences, we gain further knowledge and insight into ourselves and the world. Whilst travelling, observe, listen to and connect with locals. Reflecting on how others live in different parts of the world, learning about new cultures, visiting ancient monuments, even being lost and then finding your way again can contribute to further enhancing the spiritual journey.
Education and knowledge diminish ignorance and makes us more compassionate and empathetic in the realisation that we are one – a catalyst for spiritual healing.
5. It allows us to slow down
Where does the time go? The speed of modern living is fierce and, at times, pretty scary! But yet, we’re so used to being on autopilot that it can be hard to slow down. When first arriving in a new place, it’s not unusual to immediately want to see as much as possible. However, travelling more slowly allows us to feel less rushed and form a stronger connection to the place we are visiting.
Travel allows us to stop living on autopilot and be present in every moment. When we continue this awareness in our daily lives, life generally becomes more meaningful.
6. It allows us to disconnect
Being more digitally interconnected than ever means that balance is needed as this same technology can take away from experiencing the world fully. There is often an expectation by jobs, friends, or family to be available 24/7. Travel can double as a digital detox for spiritual growth by limiting access to smartphones, TV, laptops, tablets and social media. For example, consider investing in a camera that’s not your phone.
7. It allows us to feel ancient energies
Travel can enhance spiritual growth when we feel the energy of the place we are visiting. Everything is energy, and that energy affects us in various ways. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only wonder of the ancient world that is still standing after thousands of years. Imagine the profound energy such a place contains. When visiting temples and monuments such as these, be still and tune in. Listen to the call of the place and feel the vibration and the universal energy that the ancients knew and built to. Sometimes you don’t choose a place – it chooses you.
