The big question that everyone seems to ask themselves at one point or another during their lives is: “Where do I belong in this world?” It is easy to feel lost – both literally and figuratively – when you don’t know where your place is yet, which is a struggle for more people then you may think. Many of us are caught up in the societal norm of what we should be doing with our lives based on many various factors of who we are, where we were born, and how we were raised. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out where your place is in this world with all of these expectations. Sometimes we need a break from the pressure, demands, and crowds of people. Finding a spot that can provide a little bit of solitude may allow you to breathe in the nature, and gain some clarity on what living life is truly about.

Travelling not only renews and refreshes our sense of curiosity, it also provides us with a sense of calmness and serenity. It allows us to escape our busy lives through opening up our senses to new ideas and perspectives. It is the pursuit of natural healing. Travelling off the beaten path provides us with a deeper connection to the earth, other people, and ourselves. It’s about discovering unseen places, interacting with cultures different from our own, and ultimately uncovering a side of ourselves that has yet to be revealed. Finding the kind of tranquility that looks like an elusive dream can help heal your soul, and can offer a spiritual awakening. We return to our “real lives” with a deep sense of renewal.

To have a truly transformative travel experience, you need to go somewhere that offers peace and spiritual growth. There are many lesser-known natural healing places around the world that will renew your sense of wonder and help you do a little soul searching.

• Ubud, Bali Indonesia

Offering a serene spiritual escape, Bali is the place to go for a soulful retreat. It is one of the most tranquil and relaxing places for anyone looking to heal their mind and body. It is synonymous with spirituality with the endless amounts of lush greenery, yoga retreats, beautiful beaches, tranquil temples, and waterfalls. Bali is a magnet for spiritual wanderers, and is the place to go if you are looking to nurture your soul.

• The Dead Sea, Israel

Israel is another top destination for exploring spirituality with places like the Dead Sea. Around 1,300 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea’s shore is the lowest elevation in the world. This place is widely regarded as a spot for natural healing, and is known for drawing out toxins from the body, soothing stress, and reducing inflammation and swelling. You can be prepared to emerge with silky smooth skin and a calmed, collected mindset. There are numerous wellness retreats, meditations, yoga practices, and scenic walks surrounding the Dead Sea. This is the place to travel to if you are in need of a cleanse from daily life.

• Assisi, Italy

This quaint and medieval spot in Italy claims two of the world’s most-beloved saints: St. Francis and St. Clare. This Italian retreat is regarded as both luxurious and sacred having been built around a holy spring. It is a place to travel to for those looking to trade in busy and bustling metropolitan cities for something more grounding. This is a sacred place for people who yearn to meditate, practice yoga, and even go for a pilgrimage walk. Assisi is a place for those seeking a spiritual experience and a deeper connection to the earth.

• Sabi Sands, South Africa

This tranquil spot in South Africa known as Sabi Sands is a game reserve composed of 65,000 hectares. It was founded by local landowners in the 1950’s, and it shares a border with the well-known Kruger National Park. This is the ultimate nature escape, with a variety of luxury lodges in the area where people can stay at while relishing a safari getaway. Being so close to the great African outdoors will surely provide people with a sense of calmness, wonder, and serenity.

• Rishikesh, India

Rishikesh is the largest yoga capital of the world, and this holy city offers spiritual retreats that includes yoga classes, meditation services, and chants. These retreats, which are known as Ashrams, can either be simple and basic or elaborate and luxurious. Rishikesh is the place to visit if you want to be immersed in peace and spirituality.

• Lake Titicaca, Peru

Lake Titicaca is at the very heart of the Inca civilization. The vast lake shimmers at an altitude of about 3,800 meters. This ancient wonder is a scared place, and legend has it that Manco Cápac (its founder and king) came to life from a rock coming from the lake’s Isla del Sol. This magical place will bring you back to your roots through simplicity – the comforts here are minimum. Housing is very simple. There is no hot water, no electricity at some hours of the day, no vehicles, and there is no heating. But the whole experience is definitely worth it, allowing you to enjoy the little and simple things in life. Spending some time at Lake Titicaca will allow you to disconnect from the world for a while.

• Batanes, Philippines

Located at the northernmost part of the Philippines is the province of Batanes. This serene place is home to sprawling rolling hills and deep blue ocean. This is a remote area and quintessential place to find oneself. It exudes a sense of exclusivity and solitude so it is the perfect place for people who are looking for some peace and isolation. This place is all about positive and uplifting vibrations coming not only from its beautiful surroundings, but also from its accommodating and warm residents.

• Half Moon Caye, Belize

This dreamlike piece of isle known as Half Moon Caye is home to minimalist paradise houses, seaside cabanas, and open-air dining structures. It is like a little slice of Heaven, and it is the perfect getaway for some spiritual healing. This place is known for their sunrise yoga, beautiful beach walks, and diving at the Blue Hole, which is an underwater sinkhole that’s so huge it can be seen even from the space.

• Halibut Cove, Alaska

This quaint little town is a popular tourist destination for those seeking tranquility and peace. There are lodges and cabins around the cove and the only way to explore the area is by a boat. There is a remote community among the beautiful landscape, and people travel here to find themselves within the quiet wilderness of Alaska. For those wanting a little more Zen in their lives, this serene location is the perfect spot to disconnect.

•  Srithanu, Thailand

Srithanu is a small village and fishing port on the west side of Koh Phangan Island. The island is most popular for its monthly “Full Moon Parties,” however there is a spiritual upside which is not well known: legend has it that Koh Phangan sits atop a mound of quartz crystals which give the island its unique spiritual and healing properties. The origins of this legend are unknown, but the story is embraced by the local community which tends to care deeply about health and transformation. Srithanu is often described as being “the spiritual hub of the island,” as it is very spiritually focused and health-conscious. The village is full of yoga schools and teachers, vegan and vegetarian foods, and holistic practitioners. This picturesque island will allow you to feel the lasting effects of its energetic healing vibrations, and give you the spiritual retreat that you need.

In Conclusion…

Experiencing new places help us connect back to our spiritual selves. Whether you believe in the exceptional spirituality of some locations around the world or not, there’s something magical about experiencing a new place for the first time. From therapeutic hot springs and mystical mountains to restorative monasteries and earthly wonders, different places can help heal our souls.

There’s something magical that draws like-minded devotees to certain areas around the world. Travelling to places that have curated communities centred on individual wellness, alternative practices, and natural living allow us to stay grounded with ourselves. Where is your wanderlust going to take you next for some spiritual healing?

Megan Binder

(B.A. Psychology)

References

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