A new study out of Australia says travel might do more than help you unwind—it could actually help you age slower.
Published in the Journal of Travel Research, the study from Edith Cowan University PhD candidate Fangli Hu found that leisure travel may reduce chronic stress, support your immune system and improve how your body repairs itself.
“Leisure travel activities might help alleviate chronic stress, dampen overactivation of the immune system and encourage normal functioning of the self-defense system,” Hu wrote.
Physical activity while traveling—like walking, hiking or cycling—can also improve blood circulation and boost metabolism, which may help the body stay in balance and promote healing.
“Aging, as a process, is irreversible,” Hu said. “While it can’t be stopped, it can be slowed down. Tourism isn’t just about leisure and recreation. It could also contribute to people’s physical and mental health.”
Moral of the story? Book the trip. Science says it’s good for you.
