A non-obvious way to slow down aging and improve health has been named

Travel can have a positive impact on health and potentially slow down some manifestations of aging. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at Edith Cowan University, who applied entropy theory to tourism. The study was published in the Journal of Travel Research (JTR).

From the scientists' perspective, positive travel experiences can reduce the body's "entropy" — that is, slow down processes leading to disruption of its stability. As researcher Fangli Hu notes, new experiences, physical activity, and social interactions can improve overall well-being and maintain balance in the body.

Travel combines several factors beneficial to health. A change of environment stimulates the brain and metabolism, physical activity — from walks to hikes — improves blood circulation and muscle function, while positive emotions and relaxation help reduce chronic stress levels.

According to the authors, such effects can support the immune system and tissue repair processes. In particular, moderate activity during trips helps strengthen bones and joints, as well as improves the transport of nutrients in the body.

However, the scientists emphasize that not every trip is beneficial. Unsafe conditions, infections, injuries, or stress can, on the contrary, worsen one's health. The COVID-19 pandemic is cited as an example, demonstrating the risks associated with travel.

The researchers believe that so-called "travel therapy" is a promising field, but it is still in the early stages of study. Additional data is needed to understand how pronounced the effect is and for which groups of people it is most significant.

Nevertheless, it is already clear: the combination of movement, new experiences, relaxation, and social interaction makes travel not only a way to change one's surroundings but also a potential tool for maintaining physical and mental health.