Travel Boosts Health: Key Notes & Top 25 MCQS for UPSC Exams
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Dear readers, do you want to know how traveling can improve your physical, mental, and emotional health? In this article, you will learn in detail how traveling can reduce headaches, regulate blood pressure, reduce mental stress, and improve your quality of life. After reading this article, you will truly understand that traveling is good for your health.
How Travel and Therapy Helped Prince Harry Heal
Prince Harry, the British royal, has been open about how therapy and personal journeys have helped him navigate grief and trauma, particularly those triggered during his travels. The loss of his mother, Princess Diana, left a deep emotional scar, compounded by the intense pressure and scrutiny of life in the public eye. Decades of carrying this grief affected his mental health and daily experiences, including routine royal travels.
In the 2021 Apple TV+ series The Me You Can’t See, Harry shared that travel often triggered anxiety, including panic attacks when flying into London. These episodes highlighted how unresolved trauma can manifest in very specific situations, including those as ordinary as boarding a plane or arriving in familiar cities. To address this, Harry pursued therapy, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which specifically helps in reprocessing traumatic memories and reducing their emotional impact.
Through this targeted therapeutic journey, Harry gradually gained control over his mental well-being. By combining therapy with his travel experiences, he was able to confront triggers, reduce anxiety, and improve his overall emotional resilience. His story demonstrates how professional support can transform challenging travel experiences into opportunities for healing and personal growth.
Why is Traveling Good for Health?
| Aspect | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Heart Health | Engaging in walking, jogging, and other physical activities during travel helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation. |
| Mental Stress | New places and cultural experiences positively affect mood and reduce mental stress effectively. |
| Sleep Quality | Peaceful surroundings and innovative environments during travel enhance sleep patterns and quality naturally. |
| Blood Pressure | Physical movement and green surroundings help gradually lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. |
| Social Relationships | Meeting new people during travel fosters social connections, reduces loneliness, and improves emotional health. |
| Nature Contact | Being close to nature provides oxygen-rich environments and serene views that soothe body and mind. |
| Creativity | Exposure to new sights, sounds, and smells during travel enhances mental creativity and problem-solving skills. |
| Food & Lifestyle | Local food and active routines like walking or swimming boost immunity, strength, and overall health. |
| Happiness | New experiences, cultural exposure, and meaningful social interactions increase joy and emotional well-being. |
| Mental Peace | Positive memories, guided activities, and nature contact provide long-term mental peace and calm. |
Why is traveling good for health?
Dear ones, you should understand the impact of traveling on physical and mental health, as it enriches your life with new experiences, environmental changes, and creative activities.
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Traveling improves your heart health by participating in physical sports and doing exercises like jogging or walking.
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Traveling helps reduce mental stress, as new places and cultural experiences positively affect our moods.
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Traveling improves sleep quality, as different surroundings, peaceful landscapes, and innovative environments help in sleep.
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Traveling helps in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels gradually because it provides physical movement, green surroundings, and mental peace.
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Traveling helps in mental health because you experience happiness by meeting new people and developing social relationships.
Why is close experience with nature important?
Dear ones, when you are in close contact with nature, it provides natural solace to your body and mind. Green surroundings, an abundance of oxygen, and peaceful landscapes improve our physical and mental health.
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Walking or trekking in nature gives a good workout to the heart and improves blood circulation.
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Being close to nature reduces mental stress because the abundance of oxygen and the sounds of nature promote mental peace.
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Relaxing in natural surroundings regulates the body's hormones and improves the quality of sleep.
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Being in nature gradually lowers blood pressure because the body and mind are positively affected.
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Nature experiences enhance mental creativity, as new sights, smells, and experiences stimulate our brains creatively.
Places – Traveling is Good for Health
| Place | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Mountains | Trekking or walking improves heart health and boosts physical endurance. |
| Beaches | Calming ocean views reduce mental stress and enhance relaxation naturally. |
| Forests | Fresh air and greenery lower blood pressure and increase oxygen intake. |
| Countryside | Peaceful landscapes improve sleep quality and promote mental calmness. |
| Cultural Cities | Exploring culture and meeting new people enhances social relationships and mental joy. |
| Lakes & Rivers | Relaxing near water reduces stress hormones and provides emotional balance. |
| Deserts | Wide open spaces improve mental clarity and encourage mindfulness practices. |
| National Parks | Immersion in nature enhances creativity, physical activity, and overall well-being. |
| Islands | Remote locations promote stress relief, peace, and mental rejuvenation. |
| Hills | Walking and exploring hilly terrain boosts fitness and strengthens heart health. |
How are food and lifestyle changes beneficial during travel?
Dear ones, when you travel to different places, the local food and lifestyle changes there provide your body with new nutrients and experiences, which are very beneficial for physical and mental health.
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By consuming local food during travel, you can get a variety of nutrients, which boost the body's immune system.
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Lifestyle changes during travel, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, increase physical strength and endurance.
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As a result of traveling, you will reduce junk food and become accustomed to eating fresh and healthy food.
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Traveling reduces mental stress because a lifestyle with proper diet and exercise balances the hormones in the body.
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Positive changes in eating habits through travel can improve the quality of life and provide long-term health benefits.
Social and Mental Health Benefits
Dear ones, when you travel, your social and mental health improve by meeting new people and having different cultural experiences. This enhances your personality and happiness.
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Traveling gives you the opportunity to meet new people, which fosters positive social relationships and reduces loneliness.
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Traveling expands your mental strategy by getting to know the cultural experiences and traditions of different people.
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Traveling enhances mental happiness because you gain creativity and joy through new experiences.
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Group activities and close-up experiences with a guide during travel help with mental health and social skills.
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Positive experiences and memories gained through travel provide mental peace and happiness throughout life.
Indian Tourist Spots for Health Improvement
| Tourist Spot | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Rishikesh, Uttarakhand | Yoga and meditation retreats improve mental peace and stress relief. |
| Manali, Himachal Pradesh | Trekking and fresh mountain air boost heart health and lung capacity. |
| Kerala Backwaters | Ayurvedic treatments and peaceful surroundings enhance physical and mental wellness. |
| Darjeeling, West Bengal | Tea gardens and walking trails promote relaxation and overall vitality. |
| Goa Beaches | Sea breeze, water sports, and sunshine improve mood and physical activity. |
| Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir | High-altitude trekking enhances endurance, lung capacity, and mental toughness. |
| Auroville, Tamil Nadu | Wellness centers and organic food promote a healthy lifestyle and detoxification. |
| Coorg, Karnataka | Coffee plantations and nature trails improve heart health and reduce stress. |
| Mysore, Karnataka | Yoga centers and heritage walks support flexibility, calmness, and mental wellness. |
| Udaipur, Rajasthan | Lake views and walking tours enhance relaxation and overall well-being. www.gkview.com |
Top 25 MCQS on Travel Boosts Health for UPSC Exams
Practice the Top 25 MCQs on Travelling & Health to strengthen understanding of travel-related health risks, preventive measures, and public health considerations, enhancing exam readiness for UPSC prelims and other competitive examinations.
1. What is "Jet Lag"?
a) Fear of flying
b) A sleep disorder caused by crossing multiple time zones quickly
c) Motion sickness on a plane
d) Ear pain during landing
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Answer: b) A sleep disorder caused by crossing multiple time zones quickly
It disrupts your body's internal clock (circadian rhythm), causing fatigue, insomnia, and digestive issues until you adjust.
2. "Traveler's Diarrhea" is most commonly caused by consuming:
a) Spicy food
b) Contaminated food or water (often bacteria like E. coli)
c) Too much alcohol
d) Airplane food
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Answer: b) Contaminated food or water (often bacteria like E. coli)
It is the most common travel-related illness. The golden rule is: "Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it."
3. Which serious mosquito-borne disease requires a "Yellow Card" (Vaccination Certificate) for entry into certain African and South American countries?
a) Malaria
b) Yellow Fever
c) Dengue
d) Zika
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Answer: b) Yellow Fever
Travelers must prove they are vaccinated to prevent spreading the virus to countries where the mosquito vector exists.
4. "Deep Vein Thrombosis" (DVT) is a risk during long-haul flights due to:
a) High altitude
b) Prolonged sitting/immobility causing blood clots in the legs
c) Dehydration
d) Turbulence
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Answer: b) Prolonged sitting/immobility causing blood clots in the legs
Also known as "Economy Class Syndrome." Walking around the cabin and stretching helps prevent clots from forming.
5. Which medication is commonly used to prevent "Malaria"?
a) Aspirin
b) Prophylactic antimalarial drugs (like Doxycycline or Mefloquine)
c) Antibiotics
d) Vitamin C
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Answer: b) Prophylactic antimalarial drugs (like Doxycycline or Mefloquine)
Since there is no widely available vaccine, travelers to malaria-endemic zones take these pills before, during, and after the trip.
6. What is the primary purpose of "Travel Insurance"?
a) To get free flights
b) To cover unexpected medical emergencies and trip cancellations
c) To get better seats
d) To skip customs
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Answer: b) To cover unexpected medical emergencies and trip cancellations
Medical care abroad can be incredibly expensive. Insurance ensures you don't face financial ruin if you get sick or injured.
7. "Altitude Sickness" (AMS) occurs when:
a) You fly too fast
b) The body cannot get enough oxygen at high elevations
c) It is too cold
d) You eat too much
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Answer: b) The body cannot get enough oxygen at high elevations
Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. The best prevention is to ascend slowly (acclimatization).
8. Why should you avoid using tap water for brushing teeth in some developing countries?
a) It tastes bad
b) It may contain pathogens causing diarrhea or typhoid
c) It stains teeth
d) It is too cold
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Answer: b) It may contain pathogens causing diarrhea or typhoid
Even a small amount swallowed while rinsing can cause illness. Using bottled or boiled water is safer.
9. "Motion Sickness" happens because of a conflict between:
a) Your hunger and thirst
b) What your eyes see and what your inner ear (balance) feels
c) Fear and excitement
d) Hot and cold
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Answer: b) What your eyes see and what your inner ear (balance) feels
For example, reading in a car: eyes see stillness, but ears feel motion. Looking at the horizon often helps.
10. Which SPF level is generally recommended for adequate sun protection during travel?
a) SPF 5
b) SPF 10
c) SPF 30 or higher
d) SPF 1000
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Answer: c) SPF 30 or higher
Travel often involves more time outdoors. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, preventing sunburn and heatstroke.
11. "Barotrauma" (Airplane Ear) is pain caused by:
a) Loud engine noise
b) Unequal air pressure between the middle ear and the cabin during takeoff/landing
c) dirty headphones
d) Infection
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Answer: b) Unequal air pressure between the middle ear and the cabin during takeoff/landing
Swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum helps open the Eustachian tubes to equalize pressure.
12. What is the "EHIC" (or GHIC) card used for in Europe?
a) Discounted rail travel
b) Access to state-provided healthcare at reduced cost or free
c) Hotel booking
d) Museum entry
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Answer: b) Access to state-provided healthcare at reduced cost or free
The European Health Insurance Card allows access to medically necessary state healthcare during a temporary stay in EU countries.
13. To avoid "Dehydration" on a flight, you should avoid excessive:
a) Water
b) Alcohol and Caffeine
c) Fruit juice
d) Sleep
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Answer: b) Alcohol and Caffeine
Both are diuretics, meaning they make you urinate more. Cabin air is already very dry, so water is the best choice.
14. "Rabies" is a fatal viral disease often transmitted to travelers by:
a) Mosquitoes
b) Animal bites (Dogs, Monkeys, Bats)
c) Contaminated water
d) Raw meat
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Answer: b) Animal bites (Dogs, Monkeys, Bats)
Travelers should avoid touching stray animals. If bitten, immediate medical attention (post-exposure prophylaxis) is 100% vital.
15. Which item is essential in a basic "Travel First Aid Kit"?
a) Makeup
b) ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
c) Hair gel
d) Perfume
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Answer: b) ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
[Image of travel first aid kit contents]
ORS helps rapidly treat dehydration caused by traveler's diarrhea or heat exhaustion, which can be life-saving.
16. "Bed Bugs" are a common travel nuisance found in:
a) Forests
b) Hotel mattresses and furniture
c) Swimming pools
d) Food
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Answer: b) Hotel mattresses and furniture
They are hitchhikers that travel in luggage. Always check the mattress seams for tiny rusty spots when checking into a room.
17. "Hepatitis A" is a liver infection commonly spread through:
a) Blood
b) Contaminated food and water
c) Air
d) Insects
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Answer: b) Contaminated food and water
It is highly contagious but preventable with a vaccine. It's a key risk when eating street food in developing nations.
18. Why are "Compression Socks" recommended for long flights?
a) To keep feet warm
b) To improve blood circulation and prevent DVT/swelling
c) They look stylish
d) To prevent foot fungus
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Answer: b) To improve blood circulation and prevent DVT/swelling
They apply gentle pressure to the legs, helping blood pump back up to the heart despite gravity and immobility.
19. "Heat Exhaustion" can escalate into which life-threatening condition?
a) Heat Stroke
b) Hypothermia
c) Frostbite
d) Sunburn
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Answer: a) Heat Stroke
If the body temperature rises above 40°C (104°F) and sweating stops, immediate medical cooling is required to prevent organ damage.
20. Which agency in the USA provides global travel health notices and vaccination advice?
a) FBI
b) CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
c) NASA
d) FDA
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Answer: b) CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Their "Yellow Book" is a standard reference for international travel health guidelines.
21. "Melatonin" supplements are often used by travelers to:
a) Treat diarrhea
b) Combat Jet Lag and aid sleep
c) Prevent malaria
d) Reduce pain
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Answer: b) Combat Jet Lag and aid sleep
Melatonin is the hormone that signals the body it's time to sleep. Supplements can help reset the body clock.
22. To avoid "Salmonella" infection, travelers should avoid eating:
a) Bottled water
b) Undercooked eggs, poultry, or meat
c) Pealed bananas
d) Hot bread
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Answer: b) Undercooked eggs, poultry, or meat
Salmonella bacteria thrive in raw animal products. Ensure all food is piping hot and fully cooked.
23. "Norovirus" is notorious for causing outbreaks on:
a) Airplanes
b) Cruise Ships
c) Trains
d) Buses
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Answer: b) Cruise Ships
It is highly contagious in closed environments, causing severe vomiting and diarrhea. Frequent handwashing is the best defense.
24. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, what should you carry in your carry-on bag?
a) A book
b) Your prescription medications and a doctor's note
c) Extra clothes
d) Snacks
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Answer: b) Your prescription medications and a doctor's note
Checked luggage can get lost. Keeping meds with you ensures you don't miss doses. The note explains them to customs security.
25. "DEET" is a common active ingredient in:
a) Sunscreen
b) Insect Repellent
c) Water purification tablets
d) Antiseptic cream
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Answer: b) Insect Repellent
It is highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs that carry diseases like Dengue and Lyme disease.
Watch a Short Video: Top 10 Health Benefits of Traveling
Conclusion
Dear friends, the benefits you get from traveling are not just happiness, but also a way to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. New places, nature, cultural experiences, local food, and meeting new people will fill you with more comfort, joy, and quality of life. So you should start traveling soon and experience these health benefits.
Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites
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Prince Harry, the British royal, has been open about how therapy and personal journeys is very illustrative
ReplyDeleteYes, the benefits you get from travelling are not just happiness, but also a way to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health
ReplyDeleteEngaging in walking, jogging, and other physical activities during travel helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely travelling improves mental & phisical health besides happiness
ReplyDeleteTravelling involves walking and trecking. that improves health
ReplyDeleteTravelling & trecking involve walking, jogging and trecking. that improves health & happiness
ReplyDeleteTravelling, Tourism means walking, jogging and trecking. that leads to happiness and mental peace
ReplyDeletethe benefits you get from traveling are not just happiness, but also a way to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health.
ReplyDelete