Some seek adventure, some personal growth, and some yearn to give back to humanity. But what if you could do all three simultaneously? Volunteering abroad offers precisely this unique opportunity – a nexus of travel, self-improvement, and benevolence. Besides imparting a sense of fulfillment, did you know it also influences your health positively?
How Does Volunteering Abroad Impact Health?
Recent studies indicate that volunteering has numerous health benefits, including reduced blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, lower stress levels, and enhanced mental health. When you volunteer abroad, these health benefits are amplified by the travel experience itself, which fosters personal growth, resilience, and adaptability.
Physical Health Benefits
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Physical volunteer work like building houses, teaching physical education, or cleaning community areas can provide a good workout. It can help lower body mass index (BMI) and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Lower Blood Pressure
Volunteering can lower blood pressure by reducing stress levels and promoting physical activity Activities like nature conservation can be especially calming, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
Mental Health Benefits
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Toiling for a cause outside your own bubble can offer a renewed perspective on life, drifting you away from personal stressors. The positive interactions and sense of accomplishment can lead to reduced anxiety levels.
Increased Happiness and Self-Esteem
Helping others resonates deeply with our basic human instincts, releasing endorphins, bolstering self-esteem, and sparking the ‘helper’s high’. The cultural immersion and personal connections made while volunteering abroad can enhance this happiness quotient.
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Choosing the Right Volunteer Program
Picking the right program is essential to ensure the experience aligns with your goals and abilities. Consider these factors:
- Skills and interests: Find what holds meaning for you; wildlife, teaching, healthcare, etc.
- Location: Choose a place that intrigues you culturally and geographically, also address safety considerations, visa requirements, and vaccinations.
- Time commitment: Decide if you can commit to the duration of the program, be it weeks or months.
Practical Tips for a Healthy Volunteer Abroad Experience
Prepping for your volunteering program can be just as important as the program itself. Here are a few tips:
- Ensure travel insurance: Ensure you have medical coverage while being abroad.
- Safeguard your mental health: Culture shock is real. Maintain communication with home and incorporate self-care activities into your routine.
- Eat Healthy: Depending upon your location, local cuisine may vary vastly. Keep your nutrition in check.
Conclusion
Volunteering abroad not only leaves an indelible mark on the people and places you serve, but it considerably impacts your health — physically and mentally. Personal growth, cultural immersion, improved health, and a sense of fulfillment create a truly enriching experience. Are you ready to embark on this transformative journey?
Last modified: 1 January 2024
