Have you ever struggled with travel anxiety? You know, that queasy feeling that grows stronger as a trip approaches until you find yourself wishing you could just stay home? My stress around travel has caused me some serious consternation—and cost me some serious cash!—over the years. But lately I’ve been pushing through it, with positive results! I wrote about my sometimes crippling homesickness over at the Headspace blog. It’s worth a read even if you don’t experience major travel anxiety yourself, because you never know when you’ll be called upon to show compassion to someone who does!
P.S. Check out my last piece for Headspace, an essay on social media and self-preservation. Image Credit: Kessara Instagram
I really and truly appreciate this post, Anne. As a panic disorder struggler, it resonated deeply. I’ve always had the upfront willingness and bravery to embark on trips abroad, but once I arrive the anxiety crushes me. I cry, lose my breath, and sometimes literally curl up in a ball in bed, all while the rational side of my brain tells me that I am more than safe. On my honeymoon last year I braved Africa but lost my marbles in Namibia, telling my husband that I wanted to go home. I actually made him look up plane tickets for us to leave, but was able to ride it out and actually enjoy some bits.
It’s such a hard thing to explain to someone who doesn’t suffer from this. I’ve definitely gotten looks and comments that translate to “You are making this up….” But like you, I’ve been able to start a mindfulness practice that has really and truly helped me enjoy being in the present moment and not just wishing I could go back home. Right now I’m on a two-month trip (!) to the UK with my husband. At the end we go to Hong Kong for a wedding. I’m definitely nervous (that plane ride! the language barrier! the insane crowds!) but I think I can do it 🙂
Hi Hillary,
Thank you so much for your recent comment on my post about travel anxiety. It sounds like we can really relate on what a beast it is to deal with! I’m so impressed with your Africa trip, that’s a major undertaking even for someone who doesn’t panic about travel! So happy to hear you’re finding your way through it, and really grateful to you for sharing your story.
Hope you’re enjoying the UK!!
xo
Anne
Both your Headspace posts are fantastic, Anne. I don’t have that kind of anxiety around travel, but I know people who do. All I can say about social media & self-preservation is yes. There is a time to share and a time to protect yourself. It can be a fine line to walk these days. Hugs to you, lady. These last few years have been big ones. xx