Journey to Self-Discovery: Four Destinations That Will Transform Your Mindset

Travelling can be a wonderful experience where you learn about cultures, try new foods, pick up important life lessons and experience a sense of euphoria like no other.

People from all walks of life travel for several different reasons. For many, it may be their first time and want to discover themselves as well as new hobbies. Or perhaps it’s the veteran traveller aiming to explore all seven continents. For some, however, it may be an escape. A getaway from reality where they may be exposed to bad habits such as substance abuse and addictions.

Travelling can be a fresh start, a new chapter, the turning over of a new leaf. These individuals can utilise any rehabilitation centres and find treatment plans that are tailored to each unique case. However, often a big part of rehabilitation is the use of mindfulness.

Understanding mindfulness

At its simplest, mindfulness is awareness. At its most complicated, it can be difficult to immerse yourself in. The American Psychological Association  describes mindfulness as a deceptively simple way of relating to all experiences that can reduce suffering and set the stage for positive personal transformation. 

Being mindful allows individuals to appreciate their surroundings, transforming moments into opportunities for joy and reflection. It fosters patience when faced with unexpected changes, promoting a more adaptable mindset. 

It can be difficult to exercise this thought-process amidst the chaos of life, however if you’re travelling and looking for a place where you can experience wellbeing first hand, here are some perspective-changing places to visit.

Wat Suan Mokkh, Thailand

A country where some associate it with beautiful beaches, scrumptious street food or even a place to party. Its vast range of activities also extends to meditation retreats where one can connect with their inner self. Located over 240km from the famous Phuket island, this serious centre is not for the faint-hearted.  

On the first day of every month, Wat Suan Mokkh organises a 10-day long silent retreat, which you cannot leave early, consisting of daily meditations, chores and yoga. Moreover, be aware of the fact that your bed will be a concrete slab with a wooden pillow and a straw mat with an early 4 AM wake-up call. Despite how demanding this may feel, it is a truly profound and rewarding experience.

The Buddhist Retreat Centre, South Africa

If your travels take you to Africa, be sure to head to this retreat officially declared a Natural Heritage Site by Nelson Mandela due to the indigenous biodiversity of the area. 

A refuge that follows the laws of Buddism, its more flexible rules allow you to absorb the breathtaking backdrop consisting of beautiful birdlife and bathing pools. The centre also offers a library, art studio Zen gardens, a labyrinth and a meditation hall with the option to book a private bungalow allowing you to be relaxed and comfortable 

Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing, USA

Does your travelling compass take you to the United States of America? A place to consider for a detox would be this nonprofit retreat who mainly rely on volunteer support for its operations.

Sitting pretty atop a hill in 90 acres of woods your stay here will be completely free of charge. You’ll receive three freshly cooked meals a day and have a private room for rest and recovery. In exchange, you’ll be expected to engage in chores and maintenance of the property including gardening, housekeeping, cooking, and preservation of the sanctuary. It is said that this place has a profound impact on shifting people’s perspective in life.

Casa de los Niños del Árbol, México

Located south of the Dharmakaya Center is the holistic centre named La Casa de los Niños del Árbol directly translates to “The House of the Kids from the Tree”. Located in Bacalar, the small town is famous for its Lagoon of Seven Colors due to its striking blue colours, which range from turquoise to sapphire. 

This natural wonder provides one reason to travel there, another is its workshops dedicated to healing and personal growth. Not only are they committed to holistic therapies, the retreat devotes much of their work to protecting and regenerating the surrounding Maya jungle. It is working towards being completely self-sufficient through gardens, fruit tree plantations, forest care, and a seed bank.

Whatever your past and current situation is, it is never too late to change.  Sometimes all we need to escape our challenges and everyday obligations is to devote some time to ourselves. Explore the larger world, immerse yourself in different environments, make a positive change and you’ll love yourself for it.