Forget expensive anti-aging creams – the secret to staying youthful might be as simple as exploring the beautiful British countryside, suggests a groundbreaking study from Edith Cowan University (ECU).
Whether you're jetting off abroad, or staying closer to home to explore national parks or visit rural villages, travel therapy could just be the healthiest way to make the most of your time outdoors.
“Ageing, as a process, is irreversible. While it can't be stopped, it can be slowed down," explains ECU PhD candidate Ms Fangli Hu. "Tourism isn't just about leisure and recreation. It could also contribute to people's physical and mental health."
“Leisurely travel activities might help alleviate chronic stress, dampen overactivation of the immune system, and encourage normal functioning of the self-defence system,” says Ms Hu.
How Travel helps you stay younger
The study suggests that these types of activities could have profound effects on our health.
"Positive travel experiences may help the body sustain a low-entropy state by modulating its four major systems," Ms Hu continues. This could translate to improved immune function, better stress management, and even cellular repair.
Key benefits of travel:
- Reduced stress: Exploring new places and engaging in relaxing activities can alleviate stress and promote overall well-being.
- Enhanced immune function: Exposure to new environments can strengthen the body's defences against illness.
- Improved physical health: Engaging in physical activities while traveling can boost metabolism, energy expenditure, and overall fitness.
- Mental rejuvenation: New experiences and social interactions can rejuvenate the mind and combat feelings of isolation.
Active days out
According to the study, physical activities such as walking, cycling, or even gentle strolls help maintain the body’s metabolism and immune system, boosting overall resilience.
“Participating in these activities could enhance the body’s immune function and self-defence capabilities, bolstering its hardiness to external risks,” Ms Hu added. “Physical exercise may also improve blood circulation, expedite nutrient transport, and aid waste elimination.”
The UK's diverse landscapes offer a perfect playground for this "travel therapy." Whether you're out walking scenic trails, cycling through lush meadows, or even taking in the fresh air at a country park, these experiences can boost your wellbeing.
Here are some ideas for health-boosting countryside adventures:
- Hiking in the Lake District: Challenge yourself on scenic trails while potentially enhancing your body's self-defence system. Check out our guide to the best walks in the Lake District
- Cycling through the New Forest: Pedal through ancient woodlands, boosting your metabolism and circulation. For more inspiration, read our guide to family bike rides around the UK
- Coastal walks in Pembrokeshire: Breathe in the sea air and engage in gentle exercise that could help alleviate stress. Our guide to the best walks in Pembrokeshire has lots of suggestions.
- Yoga retreats: Combine travel with mindfulness practices for a holistic wellness experience.
- Foraging walks: Learn about local flora while engaging in light physical activity and social interaction.
While the research highlights the potential benefits of travel, it's important to note that not all experiences are created equal. Ms Hu cautions that negative travel experiences could have the opposite effect, potentially compromising health.
So next time you plan a day out in the UK countryside, remember—it’s not just a break, it could be your key to healthy ageing.
Looking for more inspiration?
Check out our guides to the best nature retreats, wild swimming and nature walks as well as our pick of the best wilderness weekends.