The Whosa Escape

Travel As Therapy: Why Women Deserve to Escape the Stress Cycle

Women are feeling burned out, overwhelmed, and that “if one more person asks me for something, I’m going to scream” type of energy more than ever. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) 2023 Stress in America survey laid it all out, confirming what so many women already know: the mental load is crushing. With financial pressures, family responsibilities, and relationship stress all piling up, it’s no wonder women report higher levels of stress than men.

We need to save ourselves.

But what if that rescue didn’t look like a bubble bath or a Sunday brunch?
What if it came in the form of a boarding pass?

When healing calls, sometimes you need a passport more than a prescription.

My Go-To Whosa Escape

When life starts serving up a little too much chaos, I book myself a solo trip. No apologies, no explanations. Just me, my thoughts, and a commitment to recharge. My absolute favorite spot? Panama City, Panama. Something about the laid-back culture, the bay views from the highrise, and the blend of old-world charm with modern urbanism. It resets me every time.

I spend my days taking long walks along The Cinta Costera, sipping on a glass of wine on my patio terrace, or curling up with a good book in the afternoon sun. And when night falls, I make it a point to sit under the stars, breathe deeply, and let the stress roll off me. That’s what I call a true “Whosa” moment. A mental exhale.

No one asking for anything. No deadlines. Just stillness.

The Therapeutic Power of Getting Away

Travel isn’t about running from responsibilities. I see it as an opportunity to create space to breathe, think, and remember who you are beyond the titles of “mom,” “partner,” “employee,” or “everything-to-everyone.” Getting out of your usual environment is like hitting a reset button for your mind. Studies show that new surroundings can reduce cortisol levels, increase happiness, and improve clarity.

And let’s be real — sometimes the best insight about your life comes when you’re sipping sangria under a palm tree, not staring at your inbox.

Community and Connection On the Go

The APA report also highlighted something crucial: women feel misunderstood and unsupported. But I believe travel can change that.

Solo trips don’t mean isolation. I’ve had some of the most genuine conversations with locals and fellow travelers. There’s something about being away from your usual surroundings that sparks honesty. People share stories, you laugh with strangers, and suddenly, the world doesn’t feel so heavy.

And if solo travel isn’t your thing, then grab a friend. There’s a reason group trips for women are booming. Whether it’s a wellness retreat in Bali or a wine tour in Napa, these experiences are all about joy, laughter, and being unapologetically yourself.

It’s Not Selfish, It’s Survival

One reason more women don’t get up and go is that society has guilt-tripped us into believing that putting the family, job, or partner on hold to focus on what we want or need is selfish. Taking time for yourself doesn’t mean you’re neglecting anyone. It means you’re protecting your own well-being. Psychologist Taisha Caldwell-Harvey made it clear in the APA report that the expectation for women to “do it all” is beyond unrealistic. It’s exhausting. Prioritizing your mental health isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

When I come back from a trip, whether it’s three days in Panama or a weekend in South Carolina, I return grounded, clear-headed, and ready to handle life. And trust me, a restored version of yourself is a gift to everyone around you.

How to Find Your Whosa Spot

If you’re ready to try a therapeutic getaway of your own, start small. It doesn’t have to be international or extravagant. Maybe it’s a solo day trip to a nearby town, a coastal escape, or even a secluded Airbnb for the weekend. The goal is to break free from your usual environment and let yourself exhale.

But if you’re itching for a bigger adventure, I can’t recommend Panama City enough. It’s affordable, beautiful, and has just the right mix of relaxation and excitement. Plus, watching the sun dip behind the city skyline with a glass of wine in hand? That’s a moment of peace money can buy.

The Call to Breathe

The APA report is a wake-up call, but it’s also a reminder that women have the power to reclaim their peace. Whether it’s through therapy, supportive communities, or a suitcase and a plane ticket, relief is out there. And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is step away, breathe deeply, and remember who you are.

Some Additional Information:

• APA’s 2023 Stress in America Survey
• Tips on Managing Stress from the American Psychological Association