How Travel Saved My Life

Lately I’ve been learning the importance of speaking your truth in order to move forward and heal. I want to let people know that they aren’t alone. Also, to remind you to ALWAYS be kind because you never know what others are battling internally. 

I grew up in an abusive household where I spent the entire first half of my life living in constant fear. My dad regularly beat me. My mom was suicidal and openly shared about how she wanted to kill herself throughout my childhood. 

I love my parents and understand they were both struggling with their own unresolved trauma. But yeah.. it wasn’t the ideal environment for any kid to grow up in.

Fast forward to adulthood, my trauma-based anxiety and depression kicked into full gear. I was in a very dark place. I spent many nights mixing alcohol and pills to numb myself. I could feel myself spiraling out of control. There were many days where I just wanted to give up and end things. 

I knew I had to do something to change my course. So... I started solo-traveling. I don’t even know how I decided to do it. Maybe I was just desperate to get away? I just started booking tickets and going. At first, it was scary, but over time, traveling showed me that I was strong, capable and that there’s beauty in this world if you open yourself up to it. 

Travel helped me show up for MYSELF. It helped me see that though I can’t change what’s happened to me in the past, I can still create a life of beauty, adventure and joy for myself. It freed me from being trauma-bound and brought me a lot of purpose & meaning. It’s terrifying to think about what I would’ve done without it. That’s why it’s so near and dear to me. 

I know many of you out there have been through your own trauma. And/or struggle with anxiety & depression. I’ve been there. Hell, I still struggle and have my good and bad days. It’s hard work to heal yourself, but so, SO worth it. Don’t give up. Continue showing up for yourself. A little bit of hope & courage go a long way. 

If you’ve made it this far, thank you so much for reading. It means a lot   ✨Much love xo.