In part one of our “Satiate Your Wanderlust Without Leaving Home” series, we began feeding our souls with a little at-home adventure by starting to Move the Body and explore our surroundings. Now, let’s down shift into a deeper layer. Stop and experience.
TREAT YOURSELF
We say things like “treat yourself” all the time. But what does that mean? Gift yourself an experience that excites the senses. To do this, begin by taking loving care of your physical self: feel good in the moment, tantalize the ears with new sounds, and shock your eyes with images of places you never could have imagined. Finally, stimulate the mind with knowledge and books written by the brilliant thinkers and travelers of the world.
- Body and energy work—Most body and energy work philosophy originated in another place. So why not try acupuncture, Tai Chi, Qigong, Reiki, or experience Thai massage? Your inner explorer will love the chance to experiment with an open mind. You might even learn something new. Not to mention you will probably feel physically amazing when you’re done.
- Live music and open mic nights—Music can be a transformative experience. Most towns have a reggae or mariachi band somewhere. If you’re in a big city you could have a blast exploring diverse music subcultures. But music doesn’t have to be what’s considered cultural to ignite the delight of a Wanderluster. Explore a new genre that you were never attracted to in the past. You might surprise yourself and love it.
- Feast your eyes—Watch a movie or documentary that takes place somewhere you have traveled or want to travel. Typically, documentaries will dive deeply into an area and its people and that’s what you’re truly craving. If you don’t know where to start, check out a personal favorite, 180° South.
- Stories of the world—Books can transport you to faraway lands. Go on a journey. You can even time travel with a book. Put down the practical travel guides and pick up a novel. Choose your book based on where the story takes place. For example, a friend recently recommended a book that takes place in Bombay called Shantaram. Ask your favorite book worm for suggestions. Here’s a few of my loves:
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
Shadow of the Moon by M.M. Kaye
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Chocolat by Joanne Harris
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Please feel free to suggest more books of this nature in the comment space below. If you do nothing else, make a book-loving Wanderluster happy today with a new recommendation.
After you have revitalized your body with a Thai massage and curled up with one of those exciting novels, prepare to venture forth again. The Wanderluster can only take it all in for so long. Next, think about ways you can Explore the Familiar aspects of your everyday life. Stay tuned as we continue to discover more ways to satiate your wanderlust.
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Outer truth-seeking journalist turned inner truth-seeking yogi, Nicole Harris now writes freelance and teaches yoga. Her practice on the mat began in Minnesota in 2011 and eventually led her to teaching in Florida. Her true passion is to cultivate awareness and live from that honest, real space as much as possible. She finds her quickest ways to get there are through nature, adventure, and travel. The deepest way is through a meditative yoga practice.