Practicing Gratefulness Through Travel

Black women are incorporating self-care and practicing gratefulness in their lives more than ever. I know this is the season for family gatherings, food, and “special” eggnog, but there are other ways to connect to inner peace and appreciation that doesn’t include big mama’s sweet potato pie. Here are a few locations designed for reflection and intentional focus on all that is good and well in your soul.

Costa Rica

Try jump starting appreciation for living your best life in Costa Rica. The locals literally live by the phrase “Pura Vida” (Good life). Immerse yourself in nature with the country’s warm water beaches, unique hot springs and volcanoes, which makes Costa Rica a major attraction to travelers. The country hosts a number of retreats throughout the year. Satya X, founder and organizer of the Women Of Color Healing Retreats, has designed a wellness retreat to celebrate the beauty of black womanhood. She evokes self-love while also opening avenues for physical and emotional healing through travel, yoga, pampering, and real talk. Chile every Black woman is sure to have a new found appreciation for life after this trip.

Sedona, Arizona

Known as the “Red Rock Country”, Sedona has developed a reputation for being the place of enlightenment. Think sage and sunshine sis! Sedona is a perfect place for spiritual and personal enrichment of the body and the soul. If you are looking to experience life-transforming, soul-nourishing work in person, this is the place. From healing massage treatments, yoga, spas, and retreats, Sedona has something to offer everyone. Ladies, Sedona is beautiful! It is like finding a precious jewel in your very own backyard. You will marvel at the colorfully tinted mountains and natural trails. This is a great location for families, couples, and girl trips.

Thailand

Thailand is far to travel, but Chile it’s worth the trip! Thailand is rich in the tradition of mediation making it a great place to relax, relate, and release. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and back to Phuket, Thailand offers something different based on your desired exposure to the beautiful culture, tasty cuisine, and overall experience. Connect to nature in all of its splendor with outdoor activities like kayaking and river rafting. Make it a true wellness vacation by indulging in some of Thailand’s unique spa treatments, which can cost you between $5-10 for a one hour massage. Yes, an hour message is paradise maxes out at ten bucks…#winning. Thailand is sure to be added to your annual spot after your first visit.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is no longer the exclusive getaway for celebrities, So no need to make it rain like Jay and Bey; come as you are and experience the benefits. This must be the place of Tony Toni Tone’ songs as this destination will see over 350 days of sunshine… how’s that for sun kissed? The City has tons of food options and beautiful spas, making this the perfect wellness destination for an out of state kickback. After Coachella fans are well on their way home, you can expect to enjoy healing dry heat, mineral hot springs, and unlimited spas. There are plenty of stylish hotels, impressive mid-century architecture. We can never forget the palm trees, and the amazing California views. California did a much better job with the pandemic, so it’s a win for this city, and the travelers who want to appreciate God’s glory in sunny California.

Bali, Indonesia

Known as the “Island of the Gods”, Bali’s entire culture centers around spirituality, prayer, community and, wellness. This destination is true paradise offering travelers endless opportunities to reboot physically and spiritually. Bali has a true diverse landscape of beaches, mountains, forests, rice fields, and urban life – all of which provide a sublime backdrop to beautiful spas, retreats and wellness experiences. Bali is the next best thing to heaven Sis, so go and get your gratefulness on. Also try the Ubud Swing…you’re welcome!

There are so many ways to commune with the Creator and partake in gratitude. Travel is always a sure way to benefit from and appreciate human creativity to wellness interwoven into God’s Creation. Go somewhere and be thankful!