Greetings!
Are you ready to embark on a journey to better health and well-being? As part of our Live Healthy, Live Well Challenge, we’re diving into one of life’s most enriching experiences: travel!
Traveling isn’t just an adventure for the soul; it’s a powerful boost for your physical and mental health. From exploring new cultures and cuisines to enjoying the great outdoors, every trip offers unique benefits that can rejuvenate your mind and body. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, let’s discover how to make travel a key part of our healthy lifestyle!
Be Well!
Kelly and Margaret
Margaret Jenkins
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County
Kelly Royalty
Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences / 4-H Youth Development
Ohio State University Extension, Clermont County
Adventures in Your Ohio Backyard
Travel has an undeniable appeal, beckoning us to explore new cultures, and try new experiences. Beyond the thrill of adventure, travel offers a multitude of benefits that can enhance our lives. This week we will explore into the transformative benefits of travel while focusing on travel destinations in Northwest Ohio.
One advantage of travel is the opportunity to encounter diverse cultures and ways of life. When we experience different traditions, languages, and foods, we broaden our worldview. These experiences help us increase our empathy and understanding. This allows us to challenge personal assumptions and expand our perspectives. Opportunities for this exist in our Ohio backyards. For example, visitors of the Toledo Museum of Art can view an extensive collection of European art, participate in an event or take a class.
Traveling with loved ones strengthens bonds. Shared experiences, from conquering a hiking trail to seeing new sights can foster connection. These adventures often lead to shared stories that deepen relationships and create lifelong memories. For thrill seekers, try traveling to Sandusky Ohio to experience the fun offerings of Cedar Point Amusement Park. It’s full of adventurous rollercoasters that are sure to provide stories for years to come. For nature enthusiasts, Wildwood Preserve Metroparks in Toledo features scenic trails, picnic areas excellent for picture taking, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Travel can be a source of inspiration. New destinations stimulate our creativity by exposing us to different art forms, architecture, restaurants and lifestyles. Artists, and writers often cite travel as a key piece in their creative processes. Seeing new sites may ignite exciting new ideas and refresh our spirit. Put-in Bay on South Bass Island may be a great place to find this kind of inspiration. The bay along with Perry’s Victory and the International Peace Memorial offer stunning views. Wineries and outdoor activities such as biking and kayaking also make this a popular place to visit, along with charming local shops and streets.
Every journey we embark on offers us a chance to learn—whether it’s about history, geography, or local customs. Visiting historical sites can provide insight that just reading or hearing about simply cannot offer. Travel can be extra memorable when it becomes a hands-on experience. For an Ohio learning opportunity consider history Sauder Village in Archbold. Explore an historic village, gardens, exhibits, and visit with craftsmen. If history is one of your loves, continue on to one of Ohio’s many charming towns in the Northwest such as Waterville, Perrysburg, or Sylvania. All feature beautiful views and charming waterfront streets to explore.
The benefits of travel extend far beyond “getting away”. Travel enriches our lives, offers opportunities for personal growth, and fosters connections. Whether it’s a day trip or just a weekend getaway, the experiences we gain from our travel adventures can create lasting memories and growth. So, when you are ready to pack your bags, don’t forget about the beautiful and exciting destinations in your own Ohio backyard!
Call to Action: Look up a new adventure in your local area and plan to visit it with your loved ones.
Writer: Alisha Barton, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Miami County, barton.345@osu.edu
Reviewer: Kate Shumaker, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Holmes County, shumaker.68@osu.edu
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