As Australia gets set to reopen international borders after 18 months, recent research carried out by Omnipoll on behalf of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) reveal that 90 per cent of Australians believe taking a holiday is an important contributor to their sense of mental wellbeing.
The survey, conducted nationally in the lead up to World Mental Health Day (Sunday 10 October), also showed the way we holiday is changing, with increasing recognition for the benefits of mindfulness.
These include being able to clear your mind and enjoy the present moment, which is considered a holiday benefit by 94 per cent of Aussies who intend to travel over the next 12 months.
The same number of respondents said the excitement and sense of emotional wellbeing kicked in the moment they started to plan their holiday.
Other top-rated benefits of holidays were the ability to spend time and connect with family and loved ones (93 per cent), feeling free to do what you want, when you want (93 per cent), and simply feeling happier (95 per cent).
“It’s no surprise holidays bring happiness, but this survey also reveals that the sense of joy and anticipation you feel right at the planning stages contributes positively to your overall sense of mental wellbeing,” said Ben Angell, vice president and managing director for the Asia Pacific at NCL.
“What’s more, the trend of mindful travel is clear, as restrictions force us to reconsider our perspective on travel. It’s now more of a privilege than ever before, which means when we can finally explore the world again, we will do so more meaningfully.”
Recently, mindful travel has been growing in significance as a global travel trend. It refers to travel experiences that are purposeful and restorative, while soothing the mind, body and spirit.
While Aussies await the end of travel restrictions, NCL is inviting travellers to enjoy the benefits of mindfulness from the comfort of their own homes.
The line has launched its first mindful colouring book for adults, Colour Your World, which taps into the trend of colouring in to help de-stress, refocus and live ‘in the moment’.
The book is filled with illustrations to inspire both mindfulness and wanderlust, showcasing some of the destinations which will be visited by the company’s newest ship, Norwegian Prima, as part of her inaugural season when she launches in 2022.
In addition, an illustration of the ship itself has been produced by Manuel di Rita (aka Peeta), who designed Norwegian Prima’s striking hull artwork.
You can request your complimentary copy or download colouring pages of Colour Your World here.
While colouring in, listen to NCL’s ‘Relax and Unwind’ Spotify playlist by scanning the following code within your Spotify app:
Featured image source: Norwegian Cruise Line
