Reasons Why Leisurely Drive Can Reduce Stress

There are probably times when you have had enough of your daily stress load and decide that a leisurely drive down the scenic highway is going to be just what you need to get away from it all. For many, honking horns, heavy traffic jams, and stressed-out commuters are the first thing that comes to mind when getting in the car. However, under the right circumstances, a leisurely drive can actually reduce stress.

Benefits of Going on a Leisurely Drive

Here are a few more reasons why taking a leisurely drive along a scenic route, a gently curved road, or even a wide-sweeping interstate can actually benefit you and help you reduce stress.

It’ll Clear Your Mind

One of the best ways to clear your mind is a long drive. A leisurely drive can provide a means of escape, a chance to breathe fresh air, think, or completely be free. If you experience anxiety or pressure around others, the best way to de-stress is to hop in the car and go for a relaxing solo drive. It provides you the space you need.

You can practice mindfulness

A long drive can be a perfect setting for practicing mindfulness. It is a form of meditation whereby we can clear the mind from extra cluttering thoughts and focus on the present moment in order to feel more relaxed and in sync with our thoughts and emotions. It’s best achieved in a solo, quiet setting, which a leisurely car drive can provide.

Device-Free Time

Smartphones, and screens in general, can be a major source of stress. The majority of our social and work interactions take place on smartphones. An ever-growing need to respond and check our emails, coupled with harmful UV rays can bring a lot of stress on our mental health. Aside from reducing stress, a long drive can help you take a break from your smartphone and let you focus on the sights, sensations, and sounds around you.

A change of scenery

A car on country side road — Driving can be a really good way to de-stress and unwind

A simple change in our environment can often be helpful when going through a stressful moment. Stress is often associated with our surroundings. Driving away from the location of the stress can help you clear your mind and gives you figurative and literal space between you and the problem.

Listening to music while driving can be relaxing

We all have the go-to playlist we listen to in order to relax, and driving is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of it. According to researchers, listening to music while driving can uplift the mood of participants. The study further indicates that people who listened to music while driving showed a more relaxed state versus those who didn’t.

De-Stress Safely

As discussed earlier, one of the great ways to de-stress is to take a long leisurely drive. However, you always have to be alert behind the wheel.

Following are the methods to practice on in order to de stress safely:

Be Well Rested

Pullover and take a break, if you feel yourself nodding off or zoning out. In that case, stretch yourself and buy some cold refreshments.

Avoid Congested Roads

Choose traffic free road — A simple change of environment can do a lot of good

Avoid city roads, busy highways, or construction sites. Instead of reducing stress, such a commute can tire you out. Opt for a stretch of road that has less traffic lights and congestion. Choose countryside roads, beaches, or tranquil towns. Driving for de-stressing is best practiced when there aren’t many distractions on the road.

Focus on Driving

Aside from safety issues, browsing or texting, while you drive, can add back the stress you’re trying to relieve. Enjoy the open road, and try to keep your phone away. Continuously reaching for a phone can take your focus away from driving. Which can be extremely dangerous.

Overall, a leisurely drive can benefit you in many ways. You can use the time for relaxation and meditation as well as learning to let go of stress through mindful driving practices.

However, the stress-reducing component of going for a drive goes away if you have car troubles.

Lastly, what makes a drive even more relaxing is a comfortable car that can block out all the unnecessary noises. You may not be able to feel the relaxing effect of a long drive unless it’s a car that can deliver a comfortable and smooth driving experience. If you wish to enjoy a truly leisurely drive, check out these used luxury cars for sale.

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