May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: Turning Awareness into Action

Every May, we’re reminded that mental health matters. But this year’s theme — “Turn Awareness into Action” — hits a deeper note for many of us who’ve lived long enough to know that life’s heaviest burdens don’t always leave visible scars.

For older adults, mental health can be the quiet crisis.
Depression, anxiety, and isolation are often misdiagnosed, overlooked, or dismissed as “normal aging.” They’re not. And they never should be.

But here’s the hopeful truth: motion is medicine.
The act of stepping outside our comfort zones — literally and figuratively — can be transformative. Travel, especially when done intentionally, doesn’t just change your scenery; it can reshape your state of mind.

Whether it’s walking through a historic city for the first time, sharing stories with strangers who speak a different language, or simply sitting beside a body of water you’ve never seen before, these experiences shift something within us. They reconnect us to the world and to ourselves.

Mental health isn’t only about managing pain.
It’s about rediscovering joy, building resilience, and feeding curiosity. Travel encourages all three.

So, during this Mental Health Awareness Month, ask yourself:
What’s one action — not just a thought or intention — you can take to prioritize your well-being?

Maybe it’s booking that solo trip you’ve been hesitant to take.
Maybe it’s visiting a place where you can walk, breathe, and listen more than you talk.
Maybe it’s planning a journey with someone who needs connection just as much as you do.

At Fit2Journey, we believe mental health is wellness. And wellness moves.

This month, let’s turn awareness into action — one step, one flight, one new experience at a time.

🌍 Destination of the Week

📍Santa Fe, New Mexico – Art. Altitude. Adobe.

🧘‍♂️ Hesitant about traveling abroad? In a time when many older adults are opting for domestic travel, Santa Fe offers a unique blend of cultural richness, wellness opportunities, and accessibility. As the oldest state capital in the U.S., established in 1610, Santa Fe boasts a vibrant arts scene, historic adobe architecture, and a commitment to age-friendly initiatives. The city is also one of the U.S.’s most age-friendly cities — with healing spas, walkable beauty, and soul-nourishing culture at every turn.

✨ Why It’s Great for Older Adults

• Age-Friendly Community: Santa Fe is part of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, focusing on improving livability for older adults through enhanced transportation, housing, and community support. City of Santa Fe+1AARP+1
• Walkable Historic Districts: The city’s compact downtown and historic districts are pedestrian-friendly, allowing for leisurely exploration of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Condé Nast Traveler
• Wellness Opportunities: Santa Fe offers numerous spas and wellness centers, such as Ten Thousand Waves, providing relaxation and rejuvenation experiences. Vogue+1Architectural Digest+1

🧘🏾 Top Activities

• Explore Art and Culture: Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, local art galleries, and historic sites to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Savor traditional New Mexican dishes at renowned eateries like The Shed and Café Pasqual’s. Road Scholar+2Architectural Digest+2The Vale Magazine+2
• Attend Cultural Events: Experience local festivals and performances that showcase Santa Fe’s diverse heritage.

💰 Budget

• Daily Spend: Approximately $150–$200 USD per day, including accommodations, meals, and activities.

🚶 Mobility & Accessibility

• Transportation: Santa Fe offers public transportation options and is accessible for those with mobility considerations.
• Altitude Consideration: At 7,199 feet above sea level, visitors should stay hydrated and take it easy during the first day to acclimate. Condé Nast Traveler

⚠️ Caution Corner

• Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions; layering clothing is advisable.
• Altitude Effects: Some visitors may experience mild altitude sickness; it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider if concerned.

🧳 Final Thought

Santa Fe stands out as a destination that harmoniously blends cultural exploration with wellness, making it an excellent choice for older adults seeking enriching domestic travel experiences.

Considering Traveling This Year?

Cynthia (Cindy) Amin, Luxury Travel Advisor at Colesville Travel can expertly guide you. Give Cindy a call at 301-989-1654 or visit www.colesvilletravel.com.