Exploring the health benefits of traveling and how taking time off can benefit your heart

The health benefits of traveling, like the purported health benefits of dark chocolate and red wine, are gaining increasing recognition.

A 2019 study published in Psychology & Health says regular vacations may suit your heart.

The research followed 63 workers who took about five vacations in a year while their blood was tested for metabolic syndrome—a group of conditions like high blood pressure that raise the risk of heart disease.

Results showed that as participants took more vacations, their heart-related symptoms and overall risk dropped.

Experts say this highlights how taking time off isn’t just relaxing—it could also be an essential step toward better health.

“If done properly, travel can be very beneficial for your cardiac health,” Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at Vital Solution told HuffPost.

Health benefits of traveling

It promotes physical activity

The health benefits of traveling extend beyond relaxation, offering significant advantages for heart health. Activities like hiking or walking in new cities naturally boost physical activity.

As Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a board-certified cardiologist, explains, “This will improve heart health by improving circulation and helping to control blood pressure.”

Travel also reduces stress, improving cholesterol levels and blood sugar control.

Dr. Chris Davis, the chief cardiologist at HumanN, emphasizes that aerobic exercise, often part of travel, supports the heart, improves blood vessel function, and lowers resting blood pressure.

Dr Serwer encourages travelers to include activities like walking, biking, or even skiing in their plans.

These experiences enhance heart health and make staying active an exciting part of exploring new places.

“Getting out of the rigors of daily life and focusing on the simplicity of nature improves blood pressure, lowers your heart rate and help you restore balance,” Dr. Sewer said.

It alleviates stress

The health benefits of traveling go beyond physical activity —it provides psychological and emotional benefits that can boost heart health.

A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 57% of people feel less stressed after a vacation, and 68% experience a boost in positive emotions.

These improvements come from relaxing, disconnecting from work, and the excitement of visiting new places.

Even short trips can reduce stress, as shown in a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Without these breaks, stress can take a toll on heart health.

“Chronic stress is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as it elevates cortisol levels, which can increase blood pressure, lead to inflammation and promote atherosclerosis,” said Dr. Davis.

He also highlighted how relaxation and exploring new environments can benefit heart health, explaining that these activities activate the parasympathetic nervous system, or the “rest and digest” system, improving heart rate variability—a key indicator of heart health.

Moreover, according to Dr. Chen, reducing stress provides several health benefits, especially for the heart, such as lowering blood pressure and improving blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

However, travel can bring stress, like long security lines and packing challenges.

To manage this, Dr. Serwer suggested travelers focus on relaxation and quality time with friends or family.

He recommended planning ahead, staying flexible, and practicing mindfulness to help reduce stress and improve the overall travel experience.

Important considerations for traveling with health conditions

Traveling with health conditions, including past heart attacks or strokes, is possible and can offer the health benefits of traveling with proper planning, says American Heart Association.

Here are some key tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Manage medications: Pack enough prescription and over-the-counter medications, including extras for delays, and store them in their original containers in your carry-on.
• Keep documentation: Carry copies of prescriptions and leave an extra set with a trusted person. Use a medication chart to track your schedule.
• Consult your doctor: Let your doctor know about your travel plans and get the necessary documentation for controlled substances or injectables.
• Research healthcare options: Look up medical facilities at your destination and check your insurance coverage, including emergency evacuation costs.
• Consider travel insurance: Purchase travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage for added emergency protection.
• Carry medical records: Some experts recommend taking copies of critical medical records.

With these steps, individuals with health conditions can travel confidently while prioritizing their well-being.

Here’s Dr. Michael Roizen of Cleveland Clinic discussing the health benefits of traveling via Hilton Grand Vacations: