Ready for an Adventure? Try Spiritual Travel!

For centuries pilgrims have embarked on spiritual travel for spiritual and personal growth. What better way to disconnect from everyday life than to reconnect through a spiritual pilgrimage? There are a variety of spiritual travel companies whose primary focus is to ensure you maximize your vacation time toward spiritual and personal development.

Contrary to stereotypes and some popular opinion, spiritual travel doesn’t necessary have to be in lotus position on top of a mountain in the Himalayas or on a camel in the Holy Land. Any vacation can be spiritually enriching, whether it be a weekend trip to the beach, the mountains, a cruise, or a day at the museum. Location is secondary…what really matters is your heart and soul’s intent for your vacation. Intent is as simple as planning time for meditation and time spent with your loved ones to focus on how your life is blessed and how to continue on the journey toward spiritual balance.

Seeking simplicity is often an effective way to best enjoy your spiritual pilgrimage. Simply selecting and planning activities ahead of time is also a great way to encourage relaxation during your trip. Cruises provide opportunities for entertainment and fine dining but also include the solace of being surrounded by water. Many people appreciate the access to a variety of activities but appreciate their freedom of whether or not to participate in them. Another aspect of spiritual travel is the retreat. Retreats often center around a holistic focus such as yoga. Retreats are typically very structured, a factor many appreciate because structure comforts a lot of people. A visit to Europe can provide various opportunities for spiritual connections. France’s cathedrals facilitate connections to the Divine for many on a spiritual pilgrimage. Europe’s many art museums are also a beautiful reminder of a Higher Power.

If you’re having trouble selecting a destination for spiritual travel, a creative way to brainstorm is to take note of the places you’d rather be when you’re stressed and in need of some relaxation. During these times when you’re envisioning yourself somewhere else, are you on a beach or in the mountains? Do you have a choice of many activities, or is your time completely unplanned? Many times our body and mind provide us with subtle clues, we just need to pay attention to the messages or as some explain - to "live in the moment."

Every person is unique with their own needs, interests, and desires, so it should come as no surprise that modes of preferred spiritual travel would vary by person. Wherever you decide to venture, careful planning can make your spiritual pilgrimage a great experience that will rejuvenate and inspire you.

Written by Sarah Myers. Journey2theheart.com offers personal development tools and workshops including spiritual travel and spiritual pilgrimage to India. Discover your own spiritual journey.