With Mental Health Week set for 11th –17th May in the UK, Travel Insurance expert AllClear and Sam de Gruchy, a BACP-Registered Integrative Therapist, wants to remind travelers of tips to help reframe anxiety. Sometimes, we do not realize we are under stress about our upcoming trip. In fact, often there’s a specific kind of "good stress" that comes with travel.
It’s that heart-in-your-throat moment when you’re strapped into the Turbo Coaster at the end of Brighton Palace Pier, watching the track loop toward the sea. Your heart pounds, your breath catches, and you realize you’re about to do something wild.
Whether it’s the thrill of that first vertical loop, the anticipation of a first cruise after a long break, or the emotional weight of traveling again after a major life change, travel is an intense experience.
As much as we think about things, our brains don't always distinguish between "I’m excited to swim in the water" and "I’m nervous about the crowds on this journey." Both can trigger the same racing heart experience that can be unnerving.
Sam suggests reframing this energy: "My body is getting me ready for something amazing." And, when it comes to those crowds of a packed pier, a busy airport, or sampling food and refreshments at a high-energy restaurant consider seeking a quiet space. Often, airports have areas designed to be calming, or be creative in a restaurant, simply excuse yourself and move to a less busy area to admire the art or surroundings. A change in scenery can help reduce stress and provide a break from stress.
Taking a ten-minute break in a quiet area or a park isn't a missed opportunity, this is a reset to help you enjoy the rest of the day. Knowing you have the "all clear" to move at your own pace gives you back a sense of control.
When you’re worried about the kids or pets at home, or traveling through a period of grief, it can be hard to "switch off." The Strategy that Sam recommends is a daily 10-minute "peace of mind" window to check-in. Once that window is closed, you can return to the present moment and get back to your travel experience.
"Effective preparation combines practical planning with psychological flexibility. When you know you have a safety net in place—both through your insurance and your own coping tools—you gain the freedom to actually enjoy the ride." — Sam De Gruchy, Integrative Therapist.
Contact Sam de Gruchy
Through his private therapy practice based in Brighton, United Kingdom, Sam de Gruchy, a BACP-registered Integrative therapist, helps his clients on a one-to-one basis to understand feelings of anxiety, anger, depression, self-esteem, relationships, identity, and existential difficulties. Visit his site at https://www.sdgtherapy.com/ for details on availability.
Learn More About Travel Insurance expert AllClear
AllClear is dedicated to helping travellers find the right Travel Insurance, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions. See their website at https://www.allcleartravel.co.uk/ for coverage and information.
Plan Your Trip To Brighton
Did You Know? While in the region of Brighton, there is a lovely open air theater with performances set for 1st May - 30 September. Brighton Open Air Theatre (BOAT) is a 400-seat theatre in Dyke Road Park, Brighton, located at Dyke Road Park, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 6EH. Among the performances are theatre, music, comedy, dance, opera, circus and family shows. This is one of many wonderful places to explore beyond the Brighton Palace Pier. Go to https://www.visitbrighton.com/ to discover local attractions, entertainment, and more to explore on your journey.
Happy Travels!
