Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
The decorations are down, the weather is grey, and the next bank holiday feels like a lifetime away. If you are feeling a little low right now, you aren't alone.
The third Monday in January is often labeled "Blue Monday." While it started as a marketing stunt in 2004 - created by a psychologist named Cliff Arnall for a travel company - the concept has stuck around because it resonates with how many of us feel this time of year. The festive cheer has faded, and the reality of winter has set in.
However, we believe you shouldn't just accept the January blues. In fact, research suggests that one of the most effective ways to lift your spirits is already at your fingertips: planning your next holiday. Even if you aren't ready to pack your bags just yet, the simple act of looking forward to a trip can do wonders for your wellbeing.
The Power of Anticipation
Have you ever noticed that looking forward to an event is almost as enjoyable as the event itself? That isn't just a feeling, it is backed by science.
A 2010 study published in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life found that the biggest boost in happiness comes from the simple act of planning a holiday. The researchers discovered that the anticipation of a trip boosted happiness for eight weeks. That is two whole months of "looking forward to it" energy!
Having a holiday on the horizon gives you a mental anchor. During difficult weeks or gloomy mornings, it serves as a reminder that a change of scenery is coming. It provides a positive focus, shifting your mindset from "getting through the winter" to "getting ready for an adventure." And it doesn't have to be a round-the-world voyage; planning a short break to the coast or a visit to family can spark that same joy.
Mental Benefits of a Change of Scenery
Travel does more than just give you a tan. It creates a distinct break from your daily routine, which can significantly lower stress levels. Stepping away from the familiar responsibilities of home allows your mind to reset.
For those living with health conditions, travel can offer an even deeper sense of freedom. It is easy to feel defined by a diagnosis when you are in the thick of medical appointments and daily management. Getting away reminds you that you are more than your condition. It reconnects you with your sense of independence and adventure, whether that means sitting by a pool in Spain or exploring a market in France.
Cruises, in particular, are a fantastic option for a gentle pace. You wake up in a new place every day without the hassle of packing and unpacking, allowing you to see the world without exhausting yourself.
READ MORE: The Benefits of Travel on Your Mental Health
Physical Perks of Getting Away
We often think of holidays as indulgence, but they can be surprisingly good for our physical health too. A meta-analysis of holiday effects found that taking a break has positive effects on health and wellbeing.
When we are on holiday, we tend to move more naturally. We might swim a few lengths, walk along the promenade, or stroll through a museum. This gentle, low-impact movement is excellent for circulation and joint health.
Furthermore, removing yourself from daily stressors helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone). Lower stress levels are often linked to better sleep quality. Many people find that a week away helps them reset their sleep patterns, leaving them feeling more rested long after they have returned home.
READ MORE: The Benefits of Winter Sun & Vitamin D
When Travel Feels Complicated
We know that for some, the idea of booking a holiday brings worry rather than excitement. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you might fear that travel isn't "for you" anymore.
Perhaps you are worried about the cost of insurance, or you are concerned that you won't be able to get cover at all. These are valid feelings. It can be disheartening to feel like your health history is a barrier to doing the things you love.
But we are here to tell you that having a medical condition doesn't mean you have to hang up your passport. The travel insurance market has changed significantly, and there are now many specialist providers who understand that a diagnosis shouldn't stop you from seeing the world.
Finding The Right Cover For You
Getting the right insurance is the key to travelling with confidence. It transforms "what if?" anxiety into peace of mind.
The most important step is to be open when you look for quotes. Insurance providers will want to know about your medical history so they can protect you properly. In the industry, this is called "screening," but really, it is just a set of simple questions about your health. By telling insurance providers about your conditions, you ensure that if you do need medical help while you are away, you are fully protected.
This is where we can help. We don't believe in a "one size fits all" approach. We compare up to 214 prices from trusted travel insurance providers to find policies that suit your specific needs. We do the hard work of finding specialists who understand your condition, so you don't have to ring around dozens of companies yourself.
READ MORE: Buying Travel Insurance Online
Turn Blue Monday into a Fresh Start
You don't need to book flights today to feel the benefit. If you are feeling the weight of Blue Monday, start small. Buy a travel guide for a city you have always wanted to visit. Spend an hour browsing villas online. Talk to your partner or friends about where you might go later in the year.
Hope is a powerful tool for wellbeing. By planting the seed of a future trip, you are giving yourself permission to look beyond the grey skies of January.
Ready to Look Forward?
If you are ready to start planning, don't let worries about insurance hold you back. We are here to help you find cover that makes you feel secure, so you can focus on the fun stuff - like which swimsuit to pack.
You can compare quotes online in minutes. It is quick, straightforward, and designed for real people. Whatever your age, or condition, we're here to ensure you enjoy your future holidays - with the right travel insurance cover!
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