Managing stress while abroad

Traveling can be stressful at times and it is important to cope effectively with stress so that it doesn't become overwhelming and ruin your experience abroad.

Here are some examples of situations that may cause stress and how to deal with them:

Problem: Missing a train, plane, or bus when you need to get to your next destination and are on a tight schedule. This happens to many people while traveling and you can choose to let it ruin your day or you can choose to make the most of the experience.

Solution: Before doing anything, take a few deep breaths - it is important to relax so you can think more clearly about solving the problem. Next find out when the next train, plane, or bus leaves. You may have to purchase a brand new ticket (which may be stressful financially) or find an alternative route (i.e., taking a bus instead of train). While you are waiting for the next plane/train/bus, think about how grateful you are for traveling or take some time to think about all of the fun experiences you've had in the past week or two. Taking time to reflect and practice gratitude will help you get past the negativity of the experience by enjoying all of the positive things that you have enjoyed from traveling.
*If you have 3-4 extra hours of waiting, go explore the city even more or enjoy one last meal before you head to your next destination.

Problem: Getting lost.

Solution: Getting lost is part of the fun of traveling! Think about all of the great things that happen when you get lost - you may find a new restaurant, meet new people, find a hidden part of the city, or discover a beautiful view point on a hike.

When you encounter a stressful situation while traveling, relax, meditate, express gratitude, or do whatever works best to calm yourself (and get rid of all of those knots in your stomach and racing thoughts in your head).

Remember, the is no need to worry about a situation you can't control. If you are stuck in traffic, waiting in long lines in the airport, or your bus breaks down, take a moment to realize there is nothing you can do to change the situation and that stressing will only worsen the situation.

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Here are some more tips for meditating during a stressful traveling situation from eHow.com:

Step 1:
Let your whole body go loose for a while, relaxing any areas of tension, and take a couple of deep breaths.

Step 2:
Accept that you have now done all you can, to make up to get there on time. There is nothing more you can do to make you get there any faster.

Step 3:
Focus on your breathing, and visualize the anxiety or worries, simply floating away with each exhalation. Don’t follow it, just let it go.

Step 4:
Each time the anxiety tries to come back, gently silence it, by bringing your mind back to its inner calm and peace. If the chatter persists, try repeating the inner “PEACE” with each exhalation.

Step 5:
Visualization can transport your mind to the most tranquil of scenes in an instant.