Travel nursing is one of the most rewarding careers you could possibly imagine. But there’s no question that it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. From demanding work schedules to living a somewhat nomadic lifestyle – at least sometimes – it can take a toll on your well-being and your personal life.
So, it should come as no surprise that travel nurses are often at risk of feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and even disconnected. However, there are ways to cultivate peace while promoting your well-being, no matter your schedule or where you are in the world.
How Travel Nurses Can Cultivate Peace and Well-Being:
Be More Mindful
The practice of mindfulness is nothing new. In fact, it’s been used in different cultures for centuries as a way to stay grounded and focused on the present. Nowadays, many people use it to combat stress and even certain mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
As a travel nurse, mindfulness gives you the opportunity to appreciate where you are and what you’re doing without focusing on past regrets or worrying about the future. By integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, you’ll feel less stressed and more grateful for the opportunities you’re given.
Close your eyes and focus on slow, deep breathing. Let thoughts pass you by like clouds you can’t grasp onto. Some people take advantage of mindfulness and meditation apps, which can get you into the right state of mind to relax and let go of your stress. Just a few minutes of mindfulness each day can help to improve your focus and maintain your mental well-being.
Stay Connected
Most travel nurses work on 13-week travel contracts. Even if you only go on one or two excursions per year, that’s a lot of time to be away from friends, family, and the things you’re familiar with.
The good news? Living in the 21st century, it’s easier than ever to stay connected to the people you love no matter where you are. Use that to your advantage and fight back against isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact your mental and physical health. One of the best ways to stay connected is by calling and texting friends.
Social media is a fantastic way to stay updated with people in your life and update them on all of the exciting things you’re doing! But be sure to utilize it in healthy ways. Social media can also create comparison issues and even affect the way you see yourself. You’re exposed to quickly changing trends and people with unrealistic body standards. If you’re already feeling stressed, anxious, or sad about your situation, seeing these things can wreak havoc on your self-esteem and well-being. Use technology to stay connected and avoid giving in to the pressures of influencers and “Internet celebrities” with impossible beauty standards.
Find Your Passions
You’re not going to be working around the clock as a travel nurse. One of the greatest benefits of this career is the opportunity to explore new places and cultures. Be sure to take advantage of that by immersing yourself in local communities. Doing so is a great way to build new friendships and feel more at home. Eat where the locals eat. Explore markets. Go to shops that interest you. You might be surprised by the people you meet and the passions you share.
One of the easiest ways to foster connections is by spending time with other nurses and people you’re working with. When you’re home, attend conferences and conventions to meet new people who might share your next adventure.
You can also utilize technology to your advantage. Check out local travel nursing groups on social media and see if there are any people in your area who would be willing to spend time together.
Speaking of passions, don’t give up on the things you enjoy just because you’re away from home. Maintaining healthy hobbies is a great way to feel more connected to yourself and to reduce stress.
You can also use these experiences as an opportunity to foster new hobbies and build healthy routines. For example, consider spending more time in nature on your travels. Being outside is a fantastic way to bolster your well-being. Research has shown that spending time in nature can:
- Boost your immune system;
- Reduce stress;
- Lower blood pressure;
- Improve sleep;
- Improve your mood.
Simply hiking, cycling, or finding new hobbies like outdoor photography can give you an appreciation for the great outdoors while taking care of yourself, too. Try picking one day a week to “reset” from the stress of your career and focus on spending more time outside that day, doing things you really enjoy.
Travel nursing will always present unique challenges. However, it is possible to find a healthy balance between a rewarding career and a peaceful personal life.
We hope you found this article on how travel nurses can cultivate peace and well-being helpful. Have you found ways to cultivate peace and well-being as a travel nurse? Comment them below.
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