The Power of Travel for Women’s Mental Health: Women are boosting their confidence and reducing stress with Greether
Travel is not just about exploration—it's a gateway to improved mental health and well-being. A recent study by Edith Cowan University suggests that travel can delay aging, enhance cognitive function, and improve physical health by encouraging social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity (Fox News). At Greether, we’ve witnessed how travel, especially when supported by trusted local guides, empowers women to feel safer and more confident.
The Science Behind Travel and Well-Being
Travel provides a wide range of health benefits. The Edith Cowan study highlights that positive travel experiences—like connecting with locals, physical activity, and enjoying nutritious meals—help maintain “low entropy,” or slow the aging process(Fox News). Beautiful environments like forests and beaches can significantly reduce stress while promoting physical and mental well-being(Fox News). The study also highlights the connection between travel and healthier eating patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, which has been linked to longevity(Fox News).
Additional research supports the idea that travel has profound impacts on mental health. For instance, a study found that vacationers experienced reduced stress and improved well-being for up to 45 days after their trip (AFAR Media). Simply planning a trip can lift your mood; 97% of participants in one survey reported feeling happier when anticipating their next adventure(AFAR Media). These effects show how deeply travel can contribute to personal happiness and emotional health.
The Greether Mission: Travel with Confidence and Peace of Mind
Greether was founded to address the stress and vulnerability that many women, including our founder, face while traveling solo. Without trustworthy local connections and vetted female guides, traveling can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, up to 90% of women worry about their safety while traveling solo. Greether’s mission is to provide peace of mind so women can travel confidently.
Parents frequently book our services for their daughters embarking on solo adventures, ensuring that they have a local greeter they can rely on. Likewise, senior travelers, some in their 80s, may have the freedom and financial resources to travel, but lack the confidence. Greether empowers them to explore the world safely.
“Traveling alone can be overwhelming. As a solo female traveler myself, I know how vulnerable it can feel without a reliable local connection. Greether exists to ensure women never have to feel unsafe or unsupported while they explore the world.” — Vanessa Karel, Greether Founder
Beyond safety, Greether provides meaningful companionship. Vanessa, a solo traveler who recently visited Bangkok, shared her experience: “Amy was the best guide I could have gotten. I felt like I made a friend for a day, which is something I sometimes struggle with while solo traveling.”
Erin, who traveled to London, also shared:
“Sara was completely friendly and nonjudgmental about my lack of solo travel experience. After spending time with her, I gained so much confidence to navigate London on my own. She even checked in on me afterward. Sara went beyond what was required.”
These stories highlight how Greether fosters independence and confidence, helping women feel supported, even during solo trips.
How Travel Boosts Mental Well-Being and Confidence
Travel contributes significantly to mental health by offering a break from daily routines. Research shows that travel lowers stress and anxiety levels by providing a mental reset(Psychology Today)(AFAR Media). In fact, a 2018 study concluded that travel improves overall well-being for weeks after a trip (AFAR Media). Moreover, the anticipation of travel itself increases happiness. A Cornell University study found that people derive more joy from anticipating a travel experience than from anticipating material purchases(Psychology Today).
Additionally, travel enhances creativity. Immersing yourself in new cultures and environments stimulates the brain, forming new neural connections that boost creativity(Psychology Today)(AFAR Media). This is why many travelers find themselves inspired in ways that impact their personal and professional lives.
Why Personalized Travel Experiences Matter
Every traveler’s needs are unique, and their experience impacts their mental health differently. The Edith Cowan study notes that tourism can have both positive and negative effects, depending on individual health and mental state (Fox News). Greether addresses this by personalizing travel experiences, ensuring that women’s unique needs—whether they seek safety, companionship, or confidence—are met. Our vetted, trusted female guides give female travelers the support they need to navigate unfamiliar destinations without anxiety or stress. We aim to make travel a safer, more empowering experience for women worldwide.
Conclusion: Travel Safely and Empower Your Well-Being with Greether
Travel has proven benefits for healthy aging and well-being, but ensuring safe and personalized experiences is key. Greether helps women travel with fewer risks by connecting them with local female guides. Whether you’re seeking peace of mind, companionship, or simply a boost in confidence, Greether is here to support you every step of the way.
Let travel be a tool for your mental health and personal empowerment. As we celebrate World Mental Health Day, take the opportunity to prioritize your well-being by exploring the world with Greether by your side.