Prior musings have outlined a method of optimizing physical, mental and spiritual health by focusing on self-care and embracing the mindful attitudes of non-judgmental acceptance, patience, curiosity, trust, non-striving,letting go and kindness. This musing explores using mindful attitudes to enhance traveling experience.
“Wherever You Go, There You Are” is a book by Dr Jon Kabat-Zinn that explores mindfulness in everyday life. Dr Kabat-Zinn jokes that this does not necessarily apply to your airline luggage!
Traveling can be very enjoyable and rejuvenating, but can also supply ample opportunities for mindful practice. The challenges of travel such as lost luggage, flight delays, noisy hotel rooms, missed trains, illness, et cetera all need to be met with the mindful attitudes of acceptance, patience, curiosity and trust. The enjoyable aspects of travel are also enhanced by these attitudes.
Some wonder how one can plan a trip if you are trying to be in the present moment as much as possible? Given that mindfulness is defined as paying attention on purpose to one thing at a time, planning could be the focus of attention for a while when needed. Mindful planning could be considered informal meditation practice!
Non-attachment to result or outcome is also a key attitude when traveling. Going with the flow, being flexible and resilient are all part of the adventure. Staying calm and less reactive helps with often-necessary problem solving. One last comment: while taking photos and videos (posted to social media or not) helps with later recall, but does reduce the full in-the-moment travel experience. Consider a balance of recording some events, but putting the camera away some of the time.
Mindful Home Practice:
See how you can bring mindful attitudes to the planning and full experience of travel. Challenge yourself (without striving!) to maintain formal meditation practice while “on the road”.